Seizures can be very frightening for the witness that does not understand the symptoms and reasons for the seizure. Seizures can be placed in four generalized categories, absence (petit mal), tonic, tonic-clonic and myoclonic. The action or first-aid of an observer is very similar for all four.

1. When you first recognize an individual experiencing a seizure, look at your watch. Attempt to time the seizure.

2. Ensure the person is in a safe environment. If the person is convulsing, clear the area of any objects they may strike during the episode. Make the person as comfortable as possible.

3. Remain calm. Speak to the individual and any witnesses in calm, reassuring voice. In some types of seizures, the person remains conscious and aware and witnesses often do not understand what is happening.

4. Do NOT put anything in the person's mouth or attempt to clear the individual's airway unless you are absolutely sure it is blocked. It is NOT true that a person can swallow their tongue during a seizure. Individuals experiencing a seizure can make a squealing or groaning sound as their muscles contract, forcing air past the vocal cords.

5. Do NOT restrain the individual. Consider your safety as well as theirs. If the person is convulsing and thrashing about, again ensure the area is clear for their safety.

6. Seizures typically last 1 to 3 minutes. If the episode continues for longer than 5 minutes, call 911 or your local emergency services.

7. Recovery from a seizure can take up to 20 minutes. The person will be very groggy and unaware of their surroundings. Stay with them until they are fully alert. If you can, have the individual lay on their left side. Be aware that vomiting may occur after a seizure.

8. If the person fell, ensure they have not injured themselves collaterally including broken bones, head trauma, etc.

First-aid for seizures is not very interactive. It is essentially keeping the person safe during the episode and staying with the individual during and after the episode. Many want to help moreto do something, however, it is unnecessary. By familiarizing yourself with the difference types of seizures you can better prepare yourself.

Absence (petit mal) seizures are often the preemptive "warning sign" of a tonic or clonic seizure. The individual may "check-out", staring into space. If you witness an absence seizure, the individual will be conscious and in an "auto-pilot" state. The individual may even be able to carry

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