Whether or not someone has epilepsy, seizures can happen at unpredictable times and in inconvenient locations. Statistically, one in 10 people will have a seizure in their lifetime; the odds are that someone you know will have a seizure.

Knowing how to respond when someone has a seizure is crucial. Most seizures are not a medical emergency, and the general steps to ensure the person having a seizure remains safe are simple.

Watch our short video to learn the basics now:

First Aid for Specific Types of Seizures

Generalized Tonic-Clonic Seizure First Aid

Formerly called “Grand Mal,” a tonic-clonic seizure is a convulsive seizure with loss of consciousness, muscle stiffening, falling, and jerking motions.

1. Time the seizure.
2. Turn the person on their side.
3. Cushion their head.
4. Remove glasses and loosen tight clothing.
5. After the seizure ends, offer reassurance.

Focal Impaired Awareness Seizure First Aid

These are non-convulsive seizures where the person shows signs of confusion, unresponsiveness, or inappropriate behavior. Behavior may include losing awareness or appearing to be intoxicated from drugs or alcohol.

1. Time the seizure.
2. Gently direct away from hazards.
3. Do not restrain them.
4. After the seizure ends, offer reassurance.