Augusta County has officially been designated a "Stroke Smart County," solidifying its commitment to raising stroke awareness and improving patient outcomes. This proclamation, made on February 26, 2025, marks Augusta County as the fourth locality in Virginia's Central Shenandoah region to adopt this crucial initiative.

The designation highlights the collaborative efforts of Augusta County Fire-Rescue, the Virginia Office of Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Central Shenandoah Health District, Augusta Health, local first responders, and the broader community in addressing the devastating impact of stroke. The proclamation underscores the importance of rapid recognition and response to stroke symptoms, emphasizing that "time is brain."

"We are proud to join our regional partners in becoming a Stroke Smart County," stated Augusta County Fire-Rescue Chief Greg Schacht. "This designation reaffirms our commitment to providing the highest level of care to our residents. Our EMS providers are highly trained to identify strokes quickly, initiate treatment, and ensure patients are transported to the appropriate medical facilities, maximizing their chances of recovery."

Stroke remains a significant public health concern, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting that someone in the United States experiences a stroke every 40 seconds. Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death and is a leading cause of long-term disability, making proactive education and awareness essential.

Regional Director for the Virginia Office of EMS and Central Shenandoah EMS Council, Daniel Linkins, emphasized the significance of this regional collaboration. "By designating Augusta County as a Stroke Smart County, we are strengthening our network of support and ensuring that stroke patients throughout the Central Shenandoah region receive timely and effective care. This regional approach is vital in minimizing the long-term effects of stroke."

The Stroke Smart initiative focuses on educating the public about the signs and symptoms of stroke, using the acronym BE FAST:

• Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination.
• Eyes: Sudden vision changes in one or both eyes.
• Face: One side of the face droops.
• Arms: Weakness or numbness in one arm.
• Speech: Slurred speech or difficulty speaking.
• Time: If you observe any of these signs, call 911 immediately.

"This proclamation is a testament to our community's dedication to the health and well-being of our residents," said Matt Lawler, Division Chief of EMS for Augusta County Fire-Rescue. "We encourage everyone to learn the BE FAST acronym and to share this life-saving information with their families and friends. Stroke education materials are available at no cost to local organizations through the Virginia Department of Health, providing valuable resources for our community."

Augusta County, as a Stroke Smart County, will continue to promote stroke awareness and provide resources to ensure that residents are prepared to respond quickly and effectively to stroke emergencies.

Learn more about the Stroke Smart program through the Virginia Department of Health website.