Finding someone who’s unconscious can feel panic‑inducing, but the recovery position is a quick, reliable way to protect their airway while you call for help. It’s not fancy—just a few moves that buy you time and reduce the risk of choking.
Use this position if the person is breathing normally but can’t respond to you. It’s perfect for situations like fainting, alcohol intoxication, or a seizure aftermath. If they’re not breathing, skip the recovery position and start CPR right away.
1. Check responsiveness. Tap their shoulder and shout, “Are you okay?” If there’s no response, call emergency services.
2. Make sure the airway is clear. Tilt the head back gently and lift the chin to open the airway.
3. Position the arms. Take the arm nearest to you and place it at a right angle to their body, with the elbow bent and the palm facing up.
4. Roll the body. Reach across the chest, grab the far arm behind the shoulder, and roll the person onto their side in one smooth motion.
5. Adjust the legs. Bend the top knee so the thigh is at a right angle; this keeps them from rolling onto their stomach.
6. Secure the head. Tilt the head slightly back so the mouth points downwards. This lets any fluid drain out instead of entering the airway.
7. Stay with them. Keep monitoring breathing and be ready to start CPR if it stops.
That’s it—just seven moves, and the person is in a safer spot while you wait for professional help.
Don’t try to straighten the legs completely; a bent knee adds stability. Avoid forcing the head back too far—just a gentle tilt is enough. And never place anything under the chin; the head‑tilt‑chin‑lift does the job.
Remember, the recovery position is a bridge, not a final solution. Keep an eye on breathing, have emergency services on the line, and be prepared to switch to CPR if needed.
Now you’ve got a clear, practical plan for an emergency. The next time you spot an unconscious person who’s still breathing, you’ll know exactly how to act—quickly, safely, and confidently.
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