All first-aid topics

Choking

Can't cough, speak, or breathe

Something is blocking their windpipe. Quick action clears the airway. Coughing strongly is good — let them cough. Silence and panic mean it's serious.

Ask: are you choking?

If they can speak or cough, encourage them to keep coughing. Stand close, don't slap their back yet.

If they can't make sound, lean them forward

Support their chest with one hand. Bend them forward at the waist so gravity helps.

Five firm back blows

Hit between the shoulder blades with the heel of your hand. Check after each blow.

Five abdominal thrusts (Heimlich)

Stand behind them. Fist above the belly button. Grab the fist with your other hand. Pull sharply up and in. Five thrusts.

Alternate back blows and thrusts

Five back blows, five thrusts. Repeat until the object comes out or they go unconscious.

If they go unconscious

Lower them carefully to the floor. Call 108. Start CPR (chest compressions) immediately.

These are short summaries, not training. Always call 108 in a life-threatening situation. If you've been trained in first-aid, follow your training.

Other guides

Call 108 — Ambulance