Health & Survival
30 minutes
Latin America
Help someone who is choking
Why this matters
A blocked airway can cause unconsciousness within minutes, but quick back blows and abdominal thrusts can save a life. These steps work when seconds matter and no one else is around.
What you need
Only your hands and the confidence to act quickly.
These are everyday items. If you don’t have one, look for the closest alternative — the steps will tell you what to use instead.
How to do it
Follow these steps in order. Take your time. You’ve got this.
Ask if they are choking; if they cannot speak or cough, lean them forward and give five firm blows between the shoulder blades.
If that fails, stand behind them and give five inward-and-upward thrusts just above the navel.
Repeat the cycle of back blows and thrusts until the object clears or help arrives.
Your one thing today
Picture where to place your hands for back blows and thrusts so you can react without hesitating.
Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Do this one thing now, even if it’s small.
Come back tomorrow
A new skill will be waiting for you tomorrow. Or if you’d like to keep learning today, explore the full library.