Choking Response
Choking is terrifying but the response is simple and effective: back blows, then abdominal thrusts (Heimlich manoeuvre). Learn the sequence for adults, children, and infants, they're different.
British Red Cross official guide. Covers mild and severe choking.
If they're coughing forcefully, let them cough, it's the most effective way to clear the blockage. Only intervene if they can't cough, speak, or breathe.
For infants under 1: use back blows and chest thrusts (NOT abdominal thrusts, their organs are too fragile).
If they become unconscious, lower them to the ground and start CPR. The compressions may dislodge the object.
After any choking episode that required intervention, the person should be checked at A&E, abdominal thrusts can cause internal injury.
MILD CHOKING: Encourage them to cough. Do NOT slap their back while they're coughing effectively
SEVERE CHOKING (can't cough/speak/breathe): Stand behind them, lean them forward
Give up to 5 sharp back blows between the shoulder blades with the heel of your hand
Check mouth after each blow, if object visible, remove it
If back blows fail: ABDOMINAL THRUSTS, stand behind, clench fist above navel, pull sharply inward and upward
Up to 5 abdominal thrusts. Check mouth between each
Alternate: 5 back blows, 5 abdominal thrusts. Call 999 if not resolved
If they become unconscious: lower to ground, call 999, start CPR