• ​​​​​​Do not hurry. Do not try to get the person up right away. Calm the person and yourself.
• Check for injuries. If they are badly injured, call 911.
• While waiting for help, keep them warm and comfortable.
• If the person thinks they can get up, get two sturdy chairs. Place one near their head and one near their feet.

1. It is important that the fallen person does the work.

2. The helper should only guide lightly, helping the person to roll onto their side.

3. Help the person to kneel. Place 1 chair in front of the person.

4. Ask the person to lean on the seat of the chair and bring 1 leg forward. Put that foot on the floor.

5. Place a second chair behind the person. Ask them to push up with their arms and legs, then sit back in the chair behind them. Guide them onto the seat. Do not lift them.

Always call the person’s healthcare provider to let them know about the fall.

If the person who has fallen is a resident in care, ask staff for help.

To learn more about your risk of falling complete the “Is there a chance you might fall?” checklist.

“Don’t fall for it. Falls can be prevented!" State Government of South Australia. 2004. Copyright Commonwealth of Australia. Reproduced by permission.