DID YOU KNOW?
Choking is the fourth leading cause of unintentional injury death in the U.S. [3]
KNOW THE RISK
- Choking happens when someone's airway is suddenly blocked, preventing normal breathing and speaking. [1]
- Over 4,000 choking-related deaths occur in the U.S. each year, most commonly affecting older adults. [3]
- Signs of choking include the universal choking gesture (hands to throat), inability to speak or cough, and silent gasping. [2]
MITIGATE THE RISK
1. Confirm the Person Is Choking
- Ask, “Are you choking?” If they cannot respond or cough, it’s time to act. [2]
2. Perform the Heimlich Maneuver (Abdominal Thrusts)
- If the airway is fully blocked and the person cannot breathe or speak, start abdominal thrusts. [1]
3. Stand Behind the Person
- Make a fist with one hand and place it above their navel, but below the ribcage. [1]
4. Deliver Thrusts
- Hold the fist with your other hand and perform quick, upward thrusts until the object is expelled or the person becomes unresponsive. [2]
FIRST AID REMINDER
Choking requires fast action. Recognize the signs, stay calm, and follow the Heimlich steps to restore breathing and save a life. If the person becomes unconscious, begin CPR and call 911 immediately.