Home Safety for patients with seizures

Seizures can result in serious injuries.

• It is illegal to drive unless it has been over six months since the last seizure. 

• When you have a seizure, you can fall and get hurt. Look around the house for sharp edges and dangerous home conditions like loose rugs that would worsen injuries from a fall.  

Safety in the house:

• Burns are a risk in the kitchen with boiling water or hot oil.

• Turn water heater to a safer temperature: below 120ᵒFahrenheit.

• Be careful when using curling irons, blow dryers and other appliances that will get hot and can cause a burn.

• Do not  lift things that weigh more than 10 pounds over your head 

Safety around the house:

• Power saws, lawn mowers and other power tools may also be dangerous to people with epilepsy or seizures.  Do not use them or have someone with you when you use them.

• Do not climb ladders and/or work in high places.

• Avoid really hot or cold temperatures.  The extreme temperatures may cause a seizure.  

Safety around water:

• You should not take a tub bath. 

• Do not swim alone in a pool or lake. 

• When on a boat or swimming in a lake or ocean, wear a life jacket

Be careful when there is any risk.  Use common sense to prevent injury.

If you have any questions about these or other seizure related issues, please call 913-588-4580.

Call 911 for life-threatening emergencies.