First Aid for Choking (Adults, Children and Babies)

  • 3 min reading time

Choking can happen suddenly and often during everyday activities such as eating, playing or feeding young children. Understanding the signs to look for and what may help while waiting for assistance can make situations easier to manage.

This guide explains how choking happens, common signs to watch for and general steps recognised in UK first aid education. It also outlines useful items to keep in your first aid kit.

For everyday home preparation, see our home first aid kit guide.

What Is Choking?

Choking occurs when something blocks the airway and makes breathing difficult. The blockage may be partial or more significant. Recognising the signs quickly helps you understand what is happening.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Group Why Risk Is Higher Common Examples
Adults Eating quickly or while talking. Food blockages, large pieces of meat.
Children Small objects and fast eating. Grapes, nuts, toys.
Babies Developing swallowing skills. Small foods, teething toys.

Signs of Choking

Signs may vary depending on the person’s age and the type of blockage. Common signs include:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Coughing or unable to cough effectively
  • Bringing hands to the throat
  • Difficulty responding normally
  • Noisy or strained breathing
  • Skin appearing pale

General First Aid Points for Choking

These general points reflect common guidance taught in UK first aid education:

  • Encourage coughing if the person can cough.
  • Try to keep the person calm.
  • Check how they are responding and monitor breathing.
  • If the situation does not improve or worsens, assistance may be required.

For family preparation, you may find our baby & child first aid kit guide helpful.

Choking in Babies (Under 1 Year)

Babies explore the world by putting objects in their mouths. Watch for:

  • Difficulty responding normally
  • Weak or quiet crying
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Lips appearing pale

If feeding, ensure the baby is held securely and upright. Allow pauses during feeds.

Useful First Aid Kit Items for Choking Situations

  • Gloves
  • Wipes (for after an episode)
  • Small face cloth or towel
  • Waste bag for used materials

You can upgrade your kit by visiting our first aid kit collection or reviewing our refills guide.

How to Reduce the Risk of Choking

  • Cut food into smaller pieces
  • Avoid small, hard foods for young children
  • Avoid talking or laughing with food in the mouth
  • Supervise children during meals
  • Keep small toys away from young children

Choking — FAQ

Should I try to remove an object from someone's mouth?
Only if the object is clearly visible and easy to take out without probing.
Is coughing a good sign?
Coughing can help clear a partial blockage.
Do babies show different signs?
Yes. Babies may become quiet, pale or unable to cry normally.
Should someone drink water after choking?
If the blockage clears, a sip of water may help them settle.
Can choking happen even with soft foods?
Yes. Eating too quickly can increase the risk.

 

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