» Know the signs that someone is choking: wheezing, inability to breathe or speak, turning blue, a frightened look, bulging veins.
» If someone is choking, apply the Heimlich maneuver. Stand behind the victim and wrap your arms around his or her waist. Make a fist and place the side where your thumb is on the upper abdomen, between the navel and rib cage. Grab your fist with your other hand and press into the abdomen with a quick upper thrust. It may take several attempts to dislodge the object.
» If the victim is pregnant or obese, place your hands on the middle of the breastbone to perform the move described above.
» If you're alone and start to choke, you can perform the Heimlich on yourself. Or lean over a chair and press down on your abdomen with a quick thrust.
» Always have a doctor do a quick check of the victim after a choking incident to make sure there is no serious damage.
