Witness a Stroke, What Should You Do?

I was reading Ray Kurzweil’s Fantastic Voyage (a book that I high recommend) - specifically the chapter on the brain. In it he references some research that cooling the brain after a stroke can prevent neurological damage. It does seem to make sense as cooling is a natural way to slow movement of molecules which could prevent decay.

I did a little research myself and found a Stanford article as well as a medical device that cools the head. Knowing this, what would you do if you were in crowded room and someone shows the signs of stroke? Obviously call 911, but while you were waiting, for the paramedics to arrive, would you suggest cooling the head? If you were a doctor this is an easy call. I am not, so while I would suggest it, I’m betting that the crowd would out-vote me by suggesting to do nothing to prevent themselves from doing the wrong thing.

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