Preventing Choking

Young children are at an increased risk of choking and suffocation as a result of their curious nature. One of the most common ways for children to explore their environment is by putting objects in their mouth. Unfortunately, some of these objects can easily get lodged in a child’s small airway and stop them from breathing.

Food, toys and other small items such as coins, batteries, buttons and small pieces of plastic bags or balloons are common choking hazards. Following the tips listed below will help prevent choking in young children.

• Give babies safe objects to chew on, such as teething rings, cold cloths, or other chewing toys.
• Replace pacifiers every two months, rather than wait for signs of breakdown.
• Keep small objects that present a choking hazard out of reach (latex balloons, plastic bags, older children’s toys, corner of plastic milk bags, pet food, coins, batteries, candies or buttons). Toys that have a diameter of 4-centimetres (1 ½ inches) or smaller are a choking hazard for a child (objects that pose a choking hazard can be identified with a small parts cylinder).
• Teach older children to keep their toys out of reach of babies and younger children.
• Avoid foods that a child can choke on, such as carrots, candies, hot dogs, nuts and so on. Cut food that can cause choking, such as wieners and grapes, lengthwise before cutting across. Even small, smooth pieces of food can be dangerous. Sticky foods, such as peanut butter and honey, can also be a choking hazard. Make sure to spread these foods out thinly.
• Make sure children always remain calm and seated while eating.
• Always supervise children while they are eating.
• Learn the signs of choking and how to respond. Consider taking a First Aid and CPR (Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation) course.