Use when someone suddenly falls and shakes or jerks, goes stiff, or stares and doesn't respond, and people nearby need to keep them safe.
In danger right now: call 911. Crisis or thoughts of suicide: call or text 988. Not sure where to start? Call the Silver City Gospel Mission: 575-388-5071. Police, fire or sheriff, not an emergency: 575-388-8840 (Central Dispatch). Print our list of phone numbers →
These are the same steps our staff use when they help someone. "They" means the person who needs help: you, or someone you are helping. Go in order, and call ahead when you can.
1Keep them safe
Stay calm and stay with them. Look at the time. Most seizures stop in 1-2 minutes.
Move hard or sharp things away. Put something soft under the head.
Loosen anything tight around the neck. Take off glasses.
Don't hold them down. Don't put anything in their mouth. They can't swallow their tongue.
2Call 911 if
The seizure lasts more than 5 minutes, or another one starts.
They have trouble breathing or don't wake up after the shaking stops.
They were hurt, it happened in water, they are pregnant or have diabetes, or it's their first seizure.
This guide is general information only, not medical, legal or other professional advice. Places and rules change, so please call before you go. In an emergency, call 911; in a mental health crisis, call or text 988. Disclaimer
Know a better way? Is something out of date?
If a number or place here is wrong, you know a better resource, or you know a better way to help, tell us. We automatically check reliable sources and update supported routine details. Unclear changes and safety guidance go to our staff for review.
📞 We need volunteers to keep this guide up to date. You can help from home, an hour a week. See how →
Questions, or want someone to walk through this with you? The Silver City Gospel Mission, 111 S. Texas St., Silver City, 575-388-5071, weekdays 9:00am-1:45pm. Everyone is welcome.