Diseases and Conditions

Seizures

Seizure first aid

It's helpful to know what to do if you witness someone having a seizure. If you're at risk of having seizures in the future, pass this information along to family, friends and co-workers so that they know what to do if you have a seizure.

To help someone during a seizure, take these steps:

  • Carefully roll the person onto one side
  • Place something soft under his or her head
  • Loosen tight neckwear
  • Avoid putting your fingers or other objects in the person's mouth
  • Don't try to restrain someone having a seizure
  • Clear away dangerous objects, if the person is moving
  • Stay with the person until medical personnel arrive
  • Observe the person closely so that you can provide details on what happened
  • Time the seizure
  • Stay calm