Huonville residents are being urged to keep an eye out in their letterbox for a magnet with a life-saving message about stroke.
Stroke Foundation volunteers will deliver 600 F.A.S.T. magnets, which highlight the most common signs of stroke, to local households and businesses this Saturday, 4 April.
Stroke Foundation Tasmanian State Manager Jodi Briggs said stroke killed more women than breast cancer, more men than prostate cancer and is a leading cause of disability.
"Stroke is impacting too many families, but it can be prevented and it can be treated if you seek medical help quickly," Ms Briggs said.
"This letterbox drop is one way to raise awareness of stroke and educate the people of Huonville about what to do if they suspect someone is having a stroke."
The F.A.S.T test involves asking these questions:
Face – Check their face. Has their mouth drooped?
Arms – Can they lift both arms?
Speech – Is their speech slurred? Do they understand you?
Time – Time is critical. If you see any of these signs, call 000 straight away.
Saturday's letterbox drop is part of the F.A.S.T. Community Education Project in which Huon Valley Council, local community organisations and residents have partnered with the Stroke Foundation to raise awareness of the signs of stroke and stroke risk factors.
The project has also included poster displays and StrokeSafe Speaker presentations.
Ms Briggs applauded the local community for getting behind the campaign.
"Sadly, Tasmania has the highest stroke incidence per capita in the country and there will be around 1,500 strokes in the state in 2019 alone," Ms Briggs said.
"But the more people who know about F.A.S.T., the more people will get to hospital in time for life saving treatment. It's that simple.
"I urge the Huonville residents to remember the F.A.S.T. message, share it with their friends and family and ensure their magnet goes on the fridge in clear sight as a constant reminder of what to do in a stroke emergency."
