Canada is the only country in the world that officially recognizes March 26th as Purple Day, following the implementation of the Purple Day Act on June 28, 2012. I want to help our community understand how to respond when someone experiences a seizure.

Stay Calm and Time the Seizure

• Stay with the person and start timing the seizure.
• Speak calmly and reassuringly to help them recover.
• Check for medical ID; administer prescribed rescue medication if applicable.
• Time the seizure from start to finish to assess if emergency help is needed.

Ensure Safety

• Move away harmful objects (sharp items, traffic, heights, etc.).
• Guide them away from danger if they are wandering or confused.
• Give them space; waking up to a crowd can be disorienting.
• Have someone nearby in case additional help is required.

Positioning and Comfort

• If not awake and aware, turn them onto their side.
• Loosen tight clothing around the neck.
• If alert, help them sit in a safe place.
• If at risk of falling or experiencing a tonic-clonic seizure:
  • Lay them flat on the floor.
  • Place something soft under their head.
  • Turn them on their side with their mouth facing downward (prevents choking).

During the Seizure

• Breathing may appear paused due to muscle tightness—this usually resolves naturally.
• Do NOT put anything in their mouth (risk of choking or dental injury).
• Do NOT give water, food, or pills until they are fully awake.
• Do NOT restrain their movements—this can cause injury or agitation.
• If they attempt to walk, ensure they are in a safe, enclosed area.

After the Seizure

• Stay with them until fully awake and alert.
• If they are choking, turn them on their side and call for help.
• Be patient and supportive; seizures can be confusing and embarrassing.
• Reassure them that they are safe.
• Once alert, explain what happened in simple terms.
• Offer to stay with them or call someone for support.

When to Call Emergency Services (911)

• Seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes.
• Repeated seizures occur.
• Difficulty breathing after the seizure.
• Seizure happens in water.
• A person is injured, pregnant, or unwell.
• A person does not return to their usual state.
• First-time seizure.
• The person requests medical assistance.

To learn more about Epilepsy read our other article here; https://yurekpharmacy.com/epilepsy-awareness-paint-town-purple/

By Daria Horbal, BSc. Phm.