If you live with seizures or care for someone who does, safety should feel like second nature, not a mystery. The good news? Most safety steps are straightforward and can be added to daily routines without hassle. Below you’ll find the most useful actions you can take right now, from handling a seizure in the moment to making your home a safer place.
Stay calm. Your calmness helps the person stay calm, even if they can’t hear you. Gently guide them to the floor and clear anything sharp or hard from around them—think coffee tables, picture frames, or pet bowls. If you can, place a folded jacket or sweater under their head to cushion it.
Don’t try to hold them down or stop the shaking. The movements usually stop on their own within a few minutes. Time the seizure if you can; note if it lasts longer than five minutes and call emergency services if it does.
After the shaking stops, turn the person onto their side. This “recovery position” keeps the airway open and prevents any saliva or vomit from choking them. Stay with them until they’re fully alert. A quick check of breathing and awareness is all you need—no need for complicated checks.
Soft flooring helps. If you have a room where seizures often happen, consider placing a rug or foam mat. This reduces the chance of head injury. In bathrooms, use tap handles that stay cool and avoid slippery tiles—grab bars are a cheap, effective upgrade.
Keep dangerous items out of reach. Store knives, scissors, and other sharp tools in a locked drawer. If the person uses a wheelchair, make sure the footrests are secure and the brakes work well.
Lighting matters too. Bright, steady lights can lessen the chance of a sudden flash triggering a seizure. If you’re watching TV together, avoid rapid‑cut action movies or flashing graphics that can act as triggers.
Don’t forget medication reminders. Missed doses are a common cause of breakthrough seizures. Use a phone app, pill box, or a simple alarm clock to keep the schedule on track. If multiple people help with medication, write down the exact dose and time in a visible place.
Finally, educate everyone at home. A quick 2‑minute talk with family members, friends, or coworkers can make a big difference. Let them know the basics: stop objects, protect the head, turn on the side, and call for help if it’s prolonged.
Seizure safety isn’t about scary rules; it’s about easy habits that protect you and your loved ones. Start with these steps today, and you’ll feel more confident the next time a seizure occurs.
Learn the crucial steps to safely assist someone during a tonic-clonic seizure, from recognizing the signs to providing rescue medication and post‑seizure care.
