6.0 Prevention: The First Line of Defense

Prevention is the most effective strategy for avoiding choking and drowning incidents. Simple awareness, establishing consistent safety habits, and modifying the environment can dramatically reduce the risk for individuals of all ages.

• Preventing Drowning:
  • Learn to swim; non-swimmers should avoid deep water.
  • Provide constant, active adult supervision for children near any water source.
  • Use security barriers or fences around pools.
  • Wear properly fitted life vests during boating or water sports, especially for children and weak swimmers.
  • Never swim or enter water while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Swim in designated, safe areas, preferably supervised by lifeguards.
• Preventing Choking on Foreign Objects:
  • Cut food into small, manageable bites. Avoid talking or laughing while eating.
  • For young children, ensure high-risk foods (grapes, nuts, hot dogs) are cut into very small pieces or mashed.
  • Keep small objects (buttons, batteries, small toy parts) out of the reach of infants and toddlers.
  • Pay attention to age-appropriate labels on toys.
• Preventing Mechanical and Chemical Asphyxiation:
  • Ensure a safe sleep environment for infants, free of soft pillows and thick blankets.
  • Secure or shorten cords from blinds and electronics to keep them away from children.
  • Ensure proper ventilation in areas where toxic fumes may be present and use protective masks.
  • Install carbon monoxide detectors in the home.

Knowing these first aid techniques is a critical skill, but always remember that calling for professional help is the definitive final step in any medical emergency.