Seizure First Aid: What to Do When a Seizure Happens

If you see someone suddenly shake, stare, or lose consciousness, it can feel scary. The good news is you can help fast with a few simple steps. This guide shows you exactly what to do, what to avoid, and how to stay calm while keeping the person safe.

Immediate Steps to Take

First, stay with the person. Never leave them alone, even if the seizure looks brief. Gently lower them to the floor to prevent a fall. Clear the area around them—move toys, chairs, or anything that could cause injury.

Next, protect their head. Place a folded jacket or a soft pillow under the back of their head. This reduces the chance of a bump or bruise during rhythmic jerking.

Don’t try to restrain their movements. Holding them down can cause muscle tears or make breathing harder. Let the seizure run its course while you keep the surroundings safe.

Time the episode. Most seizures stop on their own within 1 to 2 minutes. If you have a watch, note the start time. This helps medical professionals understand the event.If the person is on the ground, turn them onto their side once the jerking stops. This “recovery position” keeps the airway clear and lets any saliva or vomit drain out safely.

After the Seizure Ends

When the shaking stops, stay with them. They may feel confused, tired, or embarrassed. Speak in a calm voice, reassure them, and let them know help is there.

Check for injuries. Look for cuts, bruises, or broken bones. If you see any serious injury, call emergency services (000 in Australia, 911 in the US, etc.) right away.

Call for help if the seizure lasts longer than five minutes, if a second seizure starts right away, or if the person has trouble breathing. Also call if this is their first known seizure or if they’re pregnant, diabetic, or have a known medical condition.

Offer to stay until professional help arrives. Offer a glass of water once they’re fully awake, but don’t force them to drink if they’re still drowsy.

Finally, document what happened. Write down the start and end times, the type of movements you saw, and any triggers you think might have caused the seizure. This note can be valuable for doctors and caregivers.

Remember, your role is to keep the person safe, stay calm, and call for help when needed. With these steps, you can turn a frightening moment into a controlled, supportive response.