This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
What to Do When Someone Has a Seizure: First Aid Steps
Witnessing a seizure can be alarming, but administering prompt, correct first aid significantly lowers the risk of physical injury and airway compromise. Most seizures resolve naturally within a few minutes, requiring bystanders primarily to protect the individual from harm and monitor their breathing. Following clinically verified protocols—such as cushioning the head, rolling the person onto their side, and knowing when to call 911—ensures the person remains safe throughout the event.
Quick Summary
Protect the person from nearby hazards, cushion their head, gently turn them onto their side to keep the airway clear, never place anything in their mouth, and call 911 if the seizure exceeds five minutes.
Important Medical Disclaimer
This guide is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers for medical concerns.
Step-by-Step Guide
Stay Calm and Begin Timing the Seizure
Check your watch, phone, or a wall clock immediately to record the exact start time of the seizure. Most generalized motor seizures resolve spontaneously within 60 to 120 seconds. If the convulsive phase continues beyond five minutes, the individual is at risk of status epilepticus, a neurological emergency requiring immediate medical intervention.
Important: Do not leave the individual unattended to find a timer; keep your eyes on them while checking the time.
Clear the Surrounding Area of Physical Hazards
Gently ease the person to the ground if they are seated or standing to prevent a fall. Push back hard, sharp, or hot objects such as coffee tables, chairs, glassware, and heaters to avoid impact injuries during involuntary movements. If they wear eyeglasses, remove them carefully and set them aside.
Protect and Support the Head
Place something soft, flat, and supportive under the person's head, such as a folded jacket, small pillow, or sweater. This cushions the cranium against hard flooring and prevents concussions or soft tissue trauma from repetitive motor jerking. Loosen tight neckwear, collars, or ties to ensure unconstricted airflow.
Turn the Person Gently Onto Their Side
As soon as practical, gently roll the individual onto one side into the recovery position. This positional maneuver uses gravity to drain excess saliva, mucus, or vomitus from the mouth, preventing pulmonary aspiration and keeping the tongue from resting against the posterior pharyngeal wall. Tilt their chin slightly upward to maintain an open airway.
Important: Do not forcefully hold the person down or fight their muscle contractions; roll them gently without applying rigid restraint.
Do Not Put Anything in the Person's Mouth
Never insert fingers, spoons, tongue depressors, bite blocks, or any other objects between their teeth. It is anatomically impossible for a person to swallow their own tongue. Attempting to force an object into a clenched jaw can fracture teeth, puncture the gums or tongue, trigger vomiting, or obstruct the airway completely.
Important: Never attempt to administer oral liquids, pills, or food until the person is fully awake, alert, and capable of swallowing safely.
Stay Present Through the Postictal Recovery Period
Remain at the person's side until the seizure ends and they are fully conscious, oriented, and able to communicate. Following a seizure, people frequently experience a postictal state characterized by severe fatigue, confusion, headache, or temporary aphasia. Speak in a calm, reassuring voice, describe what happened, and assist them in resting comfortably.
Recognize Red Flags and Call 911 When Necessary
Activate emergency medical services immediately if the active seizure lasts five minutes or longer, or if a second seizure occurs before the person fully regains consciousness. Emergency care is also mandatory if the individual is pregnant, has diabetes, sustained an injury, seized while in water, or has no known prior history of seizures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a person swallow their tongue during a seizure?
Should I start CPR if someone is shaking or unresponsive during a seizure?
Why shouldn't I hold someone down to stop them from shaking?
When is it safe to offer water or food after a seizure?
Sources & References
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed October 19, 2026. · Read our editorial policy