FOR MORE INFORMATION
healthychildren.org: Choking Prevention for Babies & Children
healthychildren.org: How to Buy Safe Toys
redcross.org: Find a CPR Class Near You
Preventing Choking & Strangulation
Serve food that is suitable for a child's age and development. Cut food into small pieces and don't let kids run or walk around while they eat Supervise young children and babies during meals.
Examples of foods that are choking hazards: --Hot Dogs
--Popcorn
--Marshmallows
--Hand Candy
--Grapes or other raw fruit
--Carrots or other raw vegetables
**Any round or tube-shaped food should be cut into quarters or short strips lengthwise.**
Choose toys that match your child's age and ability. Read and follow all warning lables on toys and packaging. Small parts can cause a child to choke.
Do not give kids toys with cords, ropes, straps, or strings because they can cause strangulation.
Examples of toy pieces that can cause choking:
--Balloons
--Coins
--Marbles
--Magnets
--Small balls
--Button batteries
-- Toys with small parts
Do not give balloons to children under 8 years old. Children can swallow the pieces of the balloon causing them to choke.They also can get tangled up in the string which can cause strangulation.
Make sure that clothes fit your child and are suitable for their age. Watch out for strings and cords that could get tangled and cause strangulation. Don't let kids wear necklaces, ribbons, or any strings around their neck. Remove strings from jackets, sweatshirts, and other clothing to help keep children safe.
Do not put strings on toys or pacifiers because they can be dangerous for kids. Never give a child a teething necklace because it can lead to choking from the small beads. It can also get caught around their neck causing strangulation.
Make sure to keep electrical cords, computer wires, phone chargers, blind cords, and curtains away from kids. These cords can cause a child to strangle. Keep window cords as short as possible. Do not place your child's crib, bed, or other furniture next to a window. Children can get caught in the curtains or cords. Use child safety devices to help you secure cords.
Learn CPR and first aid. Call 911 in case of emergency. Call or go on-line to find CPR classes available in your area.
Do you have questions about choking & strangulation safety?
Call our FREE Safety Store Helpline at 317-274-6565. You can talk live with our staff Monday-Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM about your safety questions.