KNOWING how to prevent or recognise stroke saves lives and survivors and their loved ones are doing their bit to reduce the casualty list.
The Stroke Foundation is offering year round talks, both online and in person, in order to increase awareness.
StrokeSafe talks are run by volunteers, many of whom are stroke survivors or family members. They are available to workplaces, community groups and organisers of local events.
Presentations include life-saving information about stroke, including tips on prevention and recognition.
More than 27,400 Australians experienced a stroke last year, amounting to one every 19 minutes.
Stroke is always a medical emergency and knowing the F.A.S.T. signs of stroke can save lives. If you encounter someone you believe might be suffereing a stroke, ask these questions:
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.
Stroke kills up to 1.9 million brain cells per minute, but prompt treatment by medicsal experts can stop the damage.
StrokeSafe Speaker Maree Scale encouraged businesses and community groups to book talks.
"I witnessed first-hand how one stroke can impact entire families. My son had a stroke and it changed his life in an instant," she said.
Stroke Foundation's executive director of stroke services Lisa Murphy said incidence of stroke was increasing in people aged 18-64.
"It is wonderful to see workplaces taking steps to improve the health, wellbeing and knowledge of their staff," Dr Murphy said.
More than 80 percent of strokes can be prevented by managing blood pressure, cholesterol and leading a healthy, active life.
To request a free presentation, call 1300-194-196 or book online by clicking here.