Seizure First Aid Training: What You Need to Know

If you ever see someone having a seizure, you’ll want to help without making things worse. The good news is that the right actions are simple and can be learned in a short class or online video. This guide gives you the core steps you can start using right now, plus tips on where to find proper training.

Recognize the Signs of a Seizure

Most seizures start with a warning sign called an aura – a strange smell, taste, or feeling that lasts a few seconds. Then the body may stiffen, jerk, or lose consciousness. Look for rapid eye blinking, a blank stare, or uncontrolled shaking. Knowing these cues helps you act fast and not panic.

Step‑by‑Step First Aid Actions

1. Stay calm. Your calm voice can reassure the person and anyone nearby.
2. Clear the area. Move objects that could cause injury, but don’t try to hold the person down.
3. Time the seizure. If it lasts longer than 5 minutes, call emergency services – this could be a medical emergency.
4. Place something soft under the head. A jacket or folded towel works well.
5. Turn the person on their side. This keeps the airway open and stops drooling or vomiting from choking.
6. Do not put anything in the mouth. Teeth and gums can be damaged, and it won’t stop the seizure.
7. Stay until it ends. Most seizures stop within a couple of minutes. Offer reassurance when they come to.

After the seizure, ask if they need help sitting down or drinking water. If they have a medical alert bracelet, follow any special instructions listed. Record what happened – the time, length, and any triggers – and share it with a doctor.

Many community centers, hospitals, and even online platforms offer seizure first aid courses that last an hour or two. Look for certified programs from the Red Cross, St. John’s Ambulance, or local health departments. These classes usually include a short video, a hands‑on demo, and a quick quiz, so you leave feeling confident.

If a formal class isn’t nearby, free video tutorials from reputable sources can fill the gap. Search for videos that cover “seizure first aid” and check the presenter’s credentials – a nurse, EMT, or physician is ideal. Take notes, practice the steps on a pillow, and review the material every few months to keep it fresh.

Remember, the best thing you can do is be ready. Keep a small first‑aid kit at home or in your bag, with a soft cloth, a whistle (to call for help), and a printed cheat‑sheet of the steps above. Knowing the process ahead of time means you won’t have to think on the spot.

Finally, spread the word. Encourage friends, family, or coworkers to take a short seizure first‑aid refresher. The more people who know the basics, the safer everyone’s community becomes.

Seizure first aid isn’t about being a medical expert – it’s about staying calm, protecting the person, and getting help when needed. With a little practice, you’ll be ready to act confidently the next time a seizure occurs.