Recovery Position
If someone is unconscious but breathing, the recovery position keeps their airway open and prevents them choking on vomit or saliva. It takes 10 seconds to do and could save their life while you wait for an ambulance.
Clear step-by-step demonstration. Official St John Ambulance.
Check for breathing FIRST: look, listen, feel for 10 seconds. No breathing = CPR (Module 01). Breathing = recovery position.
The key principle: tilt the head back to keep the airway open, and position the body so fluids drain OUT of the mouth, not into the lungs.
If you suspect a spinal injury, don't move them unless they're vomiting or their airway is blocked. Support the head and neck if you must move them.
Check breathing regularly while waiting for the ambulance. Be ready to start CPR if they stop breathing.
Kneel beside the casualty. Remove glasses, check pockets for sharp objects
Place the arm nearest you at a right angle to their body, palm facing up
Bring their far arm across their chest and hold the back of their hand against their nearest cheek
With your other hand, pull the far knee up so the foot is flat on the ground
Keeping their hand pressed against their cheek, pull the far knee towards you to roll them onto their side
Adjust the top leg so the hip and knee are at right angles (stabilises the position)
Tilt the head back and adjust the hand under their cheek to keep the airway open
Call 999 if not already done. Monitor breathing continuously