Emergency? Call 112 now. Dispatchers will guide you through these steps on the phone.
An unconscious person lying on their back can choke on their tongue, vomit or saliva. The recovery position keeps the airway open and lets fluids drain.
First, check breathing
Open the airway by tilting the head back and lifting the chin. Look, listen and feel for normal breathing for no more than 10 seconds. If they are not breathing normally, call your emergency number and start CPR.
Placing them in the recovery position
- Kneel beside them. Place the arm nearest you at a right angle to the body, palm up.
- Bring the far arm across the chest and hold the back of that hand against their near cheek.
- With your other hand, pull the far knee up so the foot is flat on the ground.
- Pull on the bent knee to roll them towards you onto their side.
- Adjust the upper leg so hip and knee are at right angles. Tilt the head back to keep the airway open.
- Call your emergency number and keep checking breathing until help arrives.
Suspected spinal injury (fall from height, diving, road collision): if they are breathing and the airway is clear, keep them still. Only move them if you must keep the airway open or they are in danger.
Last reviewed October 22, 2026 against current public guidance from national resuscitation councils and Red Cross / Red Crescent first-aid manuals. General education only — not a substitute for certified training or professional medical advice. Medical disclaimer · Suggest a correction