Every parent wants to keep their child safe and protect their little ones from harm.
But many mums and dads worry they may not know what to do if their child falls ill. And choking is a common concern for those with young children.
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) says that, according to figures from the Office for National Statistics and hospital admissions data from NHS Digital, there are around six to 10 deaths a year and 600 hospital admissions of children aged under five from choking and inhalation of food and other objects.
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Here, Victoria Landale, a clinical education officer with the North East Ambulance Service, demonstrates what to do if a child is choking. In the video above, she has shown what steps we should take to help infants aged under one, followed by the management technique for older children.
She explains how a child should be supported and how you can help clear their airways by giving blows to the back. She adds: "If the child was to become unconscious, you would then dial 999 and get help from the ambulance service."
Below, we have also provided some advice from RoSPA on how to prevent choking.
What can I do to stop my child choking?
Always cut up food
Babies and young children can choke on small, sticky or slippery foods. Always cut foods like tomatoes, grapes and blackberries into quarters. Make sure sausages are cut into very small pieces.
Keep small objects out of little hands
Babies and toddlers examine things around them by putting them in their mouths. Keep surfaces clear of small toys like building bricks and marbles, and always clean up after playing, especially if you have older children.
Sit them down to eat
Children are more likely to choke if they slip or trip while eating. Make sure children sit down to eat and drink, and not lie down, walk or run.
Stay within arm’s reach
Always supervise babies and young children.
