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Patient Information: Seizure Precautions
 What is Epilepsy?
Treatment of Epilepsy
Seizure Precautions
Seizure First Aid
During a seizure, a person may injure himself or herself. Seizure precautions are guidelines that a person can follow in order to minimize injury during a seizure. For any activity, it is important to ask, "What would happen if I had a seizure while doing this?"
Bathroom Safety
A person with seizures may want to shower instead of bathe to avoid accidental drowning. If falls occur during the patient's typical seizure, a person should use a shower seat, preferably one with a safety strap.
 Use nonskid strips in your shower or tub.
Never use electrical equipment near water. This prevents accidental
electrocution.
Consider changing glass in shower doors to shatterproof glass.
Kitchen Safety
If possible, cook when someone else is nearby.
Use the back burners of the stove to prevent accidental burns.
Use shatterproof containers as much as possible. For instance,
sauces can be transferred from glass bottles to plastic containers for
use.
Limit time that is required using knives or other sharp objects. If
possible, buy foods that are already cut, or ask someone to help in
meal preparation.
General Safety at Home
Do not smoke or light fires in the fireplace unless someone else is
present.
Do not use space heaters that can be accidentally overturned.
When alone, avoid using step stools or ladders, and do not clean
rooftop gutters.
Purchase power tools and motorized lawn equipment which have a
safety switch that will stop the machine if you release the handle (a
'dead man's' switch).
Driving and Transportation
Avoid driving unless your seizures are well controlled and/or you have
permission to drive from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles
(DMV). Each state has different laws. Please refer to the following
link on the Epilepsy Foundation of America's website for more
information:
http://www.epilepsyfoundation.org/answerplace/Social/driving/drivingu.cfm
If you ride a bicycle, wear a helmet and any other necessary
protective gear.
When taking public transportation like the bus or subway, stay clear
of the platform edge.
Outdoor and Sports Safety
Swimming is okay, but does present certain risks. Never swim alone,
and tell friends what to do if you have a seizure while swimming.
Wear appropriate protective equipment.
Ski with a friend. If a seizure occurs, your friend can seek help, if
needed. He or she can also help to get you out of the cold. Consider
using a safety hook or belt while riding the ski lift.
Safety Issues for Parents
Feed, nurse, dress, and change your infant while sitting on the floor,
in a well-protected area.
Childproof your house as much as possible. If you are home alone
with your child, consider using a safe play area or playpen. Use child
safety gates to prevent a child from falling down stairs or to prevent
your child from wandering in the event that you have a seizure.
As your child grows, explain what seizures are in terms that he or
she can understand. Some people perform 'seizure drills.' Many
people teach their children how to call 911 in an emergency.
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