Just months ago, a local online news portal reported that a baby girl was believed to have died after choking on milk at a babysitter’s house in Melaka. It was not an isolated case; incidents involving other choking hazards such as fruits, toys, bread, and other foreign objects have tragically claimed innocent lives almost every other day.

Every parent wants and always hopes for their children to grow healthily and safely, no matter where they are – be it at home, daycare, or school. Safety is always the top priority wherever the children are, and it is even more crucial when your child is still an infant or toddler. They are especially vulnerable to the risks of choking or suffocation as putting things in their mouths is how they usually explore the world.

If your child is under 5 years old, they are at the greatest risk for choking injuries and death. The most common cause of nonfatal choking in young children is food. So, what should you do if your child chokes? Here are some guides for you to prevent choking and keep your kids safe!

What To Do If Your Child Chokes

If your child chokes:
DO’s

• Wait for the child to cough.
• Call for help.
• Gently open the mouth – remove the object only if you see it clearly.

If unsuccessful, slap the infant firmly 5 times between the shoulder blades with the heel of your hand and hold the child’s head lower than the body.

DON’Ts

• Do not blindly sweep your finger into the child’s mouth.
• Do not pull the neck backward.

If the infant stops breathing and remains blue or unconscious, start Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) while waiting for expert help. It’s good to learn CPR and the age-appropriate Heimlich maneuver so you are ready in case of an emergency. You can always Google for information on various websites.

For an Older Child:

• Make the child stand if conscious.
• Position yourself behind the child.
• Perform the Heimlich maneuver.
• If your child is unconscious, perform CPR.
• It’s best to immediately bring your child to the nearest hospital.

How Can You Prevent It?

• Encourage your kids to sit while eating and to chew thoroughly.
• Teach kids to chew and swallow their food before talking or laughing.
• Be especially careful during parties when bowls of nuts or candies may be easily reachable or may have fallen on the floor.
• Don’t let kids run, play sports, or ride in the car with gum, candy, or lollipops in their mouths.
• Supervise older children, who might not know they shouldn’t give certain foods to younger kids.

Caring for your child is no walk in the park because accidents do happen even with these precautionary tips. However, being prepared and staying alert will definitely help you to act quickly during an emergency. By adhering to these safety guidelines, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of choking and suffocation incidents, fostering a safer environment for your child’s growth and exploration.
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