First Aid & Emergencies

Call 911 NOW if you are having:

Chest Pain
Difficulty Breathing
Severe Bleeding

Sudden Weakness or Numbness
A Medical Emergency

Font Size

Preventing Choking - Topic Overview

Don't drink too much alcohol before eating. It may dull your senses, and you might not chew food properly or might try to swallow too large a portion of food.
Take small bites. Cut meat into small pieces. Chew your food thoroughly.
Do not give popcorn, nuts, or hard candy to children younger than 4, and supervise older children when they eat these foods. Cut hot dogs and grapes lengthwise.
Do not give young children small objects that may cause choking, such as marbles or jacks.
Look for age guidelines when selecting toys for children.
- Do not let your child play with a toy if he or she is younger than the recommended age for the toy.
- The safest toys for small children are at least 1.25 in. (3 cm) around or 2.25 in. (6 cm) in length.
Keep balloons and plastic bags away from any child who may put them in his or her mouth.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: April 20, 2010

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.