Know what to do in the first 60 seconds.
Choking is one of the most survivable emergencies — if someone acts fast. ChokeOn.com gives you clear, step-by-step guidance for adults, children, and infants, plus how to prevent choking before it happens.
Adult or child is choking? Quick checklist:
- Ask "Are you choking?" If they can't speak, cough, or breathe — act now.
- Have someone call your local emergency number.
- Give 5 back blows between the shoulder blades.
- Give 5 abdominal thrusts (the Heimlich maneuver).
- Repeat until the object comes out or help arrives.
Full instructions, including for infants and unconscious victims, on the pages below.
Find the guidance for your situation
Choking response is different depending on who's affected. Choose the right guide.
Adults & Children
Back blows and abdominal thrusts (the Heimlich maneuver) for conscious and unconscious victims over age 1.
View steps →Infants (under 1 year)
A gentler technique using back blows and chest thrusts — never abdominal thrusts on a baby.
View steps →Prevention
Choking hazard foods by age, home and toy safety, and habits that lower the risk before it starts.
View tips →Always call your local emergency number (911 in the US, 999 in the UK, 112 in the EU) for a real choking emergency. Consider taking an accredited first aid and CPR course — reading alone cannot fully prepare you. See our resources page for certified training options.
Why speed matters
The brain can go without oxygen for only a few minutes before injury begins. That's why recognizing choking immediately — and responding without hesitation — saves lives.
Signs it IS choking
- Clutching the throat (the universal choking sign)
- Unable to cough, speak, or breathe
- High-pitched sounds while trying to breathe, or no sound at all
- Skin, lips, or nails turning blue or gray
- Panicked expression, then loss of consciousness if not resolved
When NOT to intervene yet
- They are coughing forcefully — encourage continued coughing, don't interrupt
- They can still speak or make sounds — the airway isn't fully blocked
- They are breathing, even if noisy — monitor closely and stay calm
- If in doubt, ask clearly: "Are you choking?"
Ready when it counts
Review the steps now, before you need them. Muscle memory is what makes the difference in an emergency.