What to do
Recognize a severe airway emergency
If the person cannot breathe, speak, cry or cough effectively, treat it as an emergency.
Call 911
Get emergency services involved immediately for severe choking. Put the phone on speaker if you are alone and able.
Use age-appropriate first aid only if you know how
Follow current Red Cross/American Heart Association or dispatcher instructions for choking first aid. Techniques differ for infants, children and adults.
If the person becomes unresponsive
Follow 911 dispatcher instructions and begin CPR only if trained or directed.
Get medical follow-up when advised
A person may need medical evaluation even after the object is expelled.
Kindos safety note: This guide provides general preparedness information and cannot cover every situation. It is not a substitute for 911, emergency services, medical care, legal advice, police/fire instructions, or official local guidance. Follow emergency professionals and authoritative local instructions.