Seizure First Aid: When to Call 911 & What to Do

Knowing how to respond during a seizure can prevent injury and ensure timely emergency care. Follow these steps:

During the Seizure

• Ensure safety: Clear the area of hard or sharp objects.
• Position safely: Gently guide the person to the floor; place something soft under the head.
• Do NOT restrain—this can cause injury.
• Turn onto side (recovery position) to keep airway open and allow secretions to drain.
• Loosen tight clothing around the neck.
• Do NOT put anything in the mouth—this risks broken teeth, jaw injury, or choking.
• Time the seizure—note start and end.

Call 911 Immediately If:

• Seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes.
• Another seizure begins before the person fully recovers.
• Breathing does not resume after the seizure.
• The person is injured, pregnant, has diabetes, or this is a first seizure.
• Seizure occurs in water.

After the Seizure

• Stay with the person until fully awake and oriented.
• Keep them in the recovery position if drowsy or nauseated.
• Speak calmly and reassuringly.
• Allow rest; do not offer food or drink until fully alert.
• Document details: duration, movements, behavior before/after for medical providers.

Most seizures are self-limiting. Your calm, informed response makes a critical difference.