What should you do if someone is having a seizure?

1. Don't be afraid. Stay calm. The person will be OK.
2. Do not try to stop the person from shaking. If the person is walking, gently guide him or her away from dangerous places like stairs.
3. Call an adult and listen to what the adult tells you to do.
4. If there is no adult, call 911 and tell them that you need an ambulance. Be sure to tell the operator where you are.
5. To make sure the person doesn't get hurt, move any sharp things out of the way.
6. Do not put anything in the person's mouth.
7. If you can, check a clock to see what time the seizure started and what time the shaking stops or the person wakes up.
8. If the person is lying down, turn him or her on one side, if they are not too heavy.
9. If the person wakes up, speak in a quiet voice and say that things are OK. Offer to help.
10. Stay with the person until an adult or the ambulance arrives.

Additional First Aid information

Topic Editor: Steven C. Schachter, M.D.
Last Reviewed:12/15/06