Your health and well-being are important to us at the West Buncombe Fire Department. High blood pressure, or hypertension, can lead to serious health issues such as heart attack or stroke, making it essential to monitor regularly. That’s why we are proud to offer free blood pressure checks to our community members, helping you stay on top of your health and take preventive measures if necessary.
Service Details
You can get your blood pressure checked at both of our conveniently located stations:
Availability
Our blood pressure check services are available from 8 a.m. to dusk, seven days a week. No appointment is necessary – just drop by at your convenience. This accessibility ensures that everyone in the community has the opportunity to monitor their blood pressure regularly, which is a crucial step in maintaining overall health.
Why Regular Blood Pressure Checks Are Important
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, can lead to serious health problems, including heart attack or stroke (American Heart Association). Measuring your blood pressure is the only way to see if you have it, and controlling it can help prevent significant health problems.
What Do Blood Pressure Numbers Mean?
- Systolic Blood Pressure: The first number. It measures the pressure your blood is pushing against your artery walls when the heart beats.
- Diastolic Blood Pressure: The second number. It measures the pressure your blood is pushing against your artery walls while the heart muscle rests between beats.
What to Expect
- Quick and Easy Process: Our firefighters will perform a quick and easy blood pressure check using professional-grade equipment.
- Confidential and Professional: Your privacy is important to us. All checks are conducted confidentially and professionally.
- General Information: Our staff can provide general information about blood pressure and maintaining healthy levels.
Contact Us
If you have any questions or need more information, please feel free to contact us here. We are committed to supporting your health and well-being and look forward to serving you.
Visit us at either Station 1 or Station 2 for your blood pressure check and take a proactive step towards a healthier life.
American Heart Association
Healthy and Unhealthy Blood Pressure Ranges
| Blood Pressure Category | Systolic mm/Hg (Upper Number) | And/Or Diastolic mm/Hg (Lower Number) |
|---|---|---|
|
Normal |
Less than 120 |
And Less than 80 |
|
Elevated |
120-129 |
And Less than 80 |
|
High Blood Pressure (Stage 1) |
130-139 |
Or 80-89 |
|
High Blood Pressure (Stage 2) |
140 or Higher |
Or 90 or Higher |
|
Hypertensive Crisis |
Higher than 180 |
And/or Higher than 120 |
A single high blood pressure reading doesn’t necessarily constitute a high blood pressure diagnosis. You are encouraged to have your blood pressure taken over several days and around the same time; your blood pressure will vary throughout the day. Our staff will provide a card for you to record your blood pressure readings, which can then be brought to your doctor.
Note: Only a doctor or other medical professional can confirm a high blood pressure diagnosis.