Choking
Choking is usually caused by a large piece of food blocking the throat, preventing breathing. The person may lose consciousness quickly and may die within 4–6 minutes if the obstruction is not removed.

It may be mistaken for a heart attack. Key differences include:

• The person may have been eating
• The person cannot speak or breathe
• The person turns blue quickly
• The person may grasp their neck (Heimlich sign)

If conscious:
Stand behind the casualty, place a fist (thumb side) on the upper abdomen, grasp it with the other hand, and apply quick upward thrusts. Repeat as necessary.

Self-treatment:
Use your fist or press against a solid object like a chair or table.

If unconscious:
Lay the casualty on their back, turn the head to one side, and apply abdominal thrusts. Remove the obstruction once dislodged and place the casualty in the unconscious position.