When someone has a seizure, follow these steps to ensure their safety and provide proper first aid:

During the Seizure

• Stay calm and remain with the person throughout the seizure

• Keep the person safe by clearing the area of any hard or sharp objects that could cause injury

• If they appear to be falling, gently ease them to the ground to prevent injury

• Cushion their head with something soft and flat, like a jacket or blanket, to protect it from injury

• Turn the person gently onto their side with their mouth pointing downward (recovery position) as soon as possible, especially if they have fluids or vomit in their mouth, to keep their airway clear

• Loosen any tight clothing around their neck to aid breathing

• Remove eyeglasses if they are wearing any

• Do not restrain their movements or try to stop the seizure

• Do not put anything in their mouth; they cannot swallow their tongue, and putting objects in their mouth can cause injury or choking

• Do not give them food, drink, or medication during the seizure

After the Seizure

• Stay with the person and talk to them calmly until they recover

• Keep them in the recovery position until they are fully awake and breathing normally

• Offer reassurance and let them know you are there to help

• Note the time the seizure started and how long it lasts

When to Call Emergency Services (911 or local emergency number)

Call for help if:

• The seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes

• Another seizure follows immediately after the first

• The person has difficulty breathing or does not wake up after the seizure

• The person is injured during the seizure

• The seizure occurs in water or the person has inhaled or swallowed water

• The person has never had a seizure before

• The person is pregnant or has diabetes and loses consciousness

• You are unsure about the cause of the seizure or feel uncomfortable managing the situation

Additional Tips

• If the person is in a wheelchair, secure the brakes and protect their head without removing seat belts unless necessary for safety

• Avoid crowding; keep others at a distance to give the person privacy and space

• After recovery, the person may be tired and need rest; assist them in contacting a family member or friend if needed

These guidelines help keep the person safe and ensure appropriate care during and after a seizure