Choking is a leading cause of death in children under 2 and adults over 65. Children and adults with disabilities are in a special risk group due swallowing challenges, seizures and their challenges in chewing food properly. As a parent, grandparent, babysitter, sibling, care provider you play a critical part in preventing choking and providing care if choking occurs. Even being a bystander plays an important role if they are the first responder!
Check out this video of a bystander who knew how to act, saving the life of this waitress!
And this video always gets my mama heart...
Are you familiar with these foods that are commonly choked on? Which ones surprise you?
hotdogs
apples
carrots
grapes
nuts & dried fruit
peanut butter especially in a large dollop
marshmallows
gum & hard candy
popcorn
soft, squishy bread
What can you do to reduce choking?
Cut food in small bites.
Cut round foods into non round bites. (Example: Cut hotdogs into long strips and then pieces, cut grapes into quarters or eighths. Shred carrots.)
Slow down while eating.
Focus while eating on eating.
Do not eat on the go. (Don't let children run around while eating.)
Increase saliva production.
If choking occurs...
STAY CALM.
When you stay calm, you can remember your training and think outside of the box in unusual situations.
Ask- Are you ok?
Begin back blows if it is determined that the person needs assistance.
Perform the Heimlich maneuver or abdominal thrusts
Repeat.
If you have taken a class from us in the past, all of the steps to review the Heimlich maneuver and abdominal thrusts are in your digital handbook. This is a part of your digital cert card that was sent to you in your email upon completing our course.
Your mindset matters.
Your preparedness in training matters.
You are a critical piece.
Thank you!