Hundreds die from choking each year as St John Ambulance calls for greater first aid awareness

Hundreds of people die from choking incidents in England each year, with St John Ambulance warning that greater public knowledge of basic first aid could help save lives.

Around 300 people die from choking each year, according to the charity, which is raising awareness of the importance of knowing how to perform back blows and abdominal thrusts.

New research from St John Ambulance found that almost one in three Britons – 32% – do not realise that choking can become life-threatening within minutes without first aid.

The charity is highlighting real-life cases where members of the public have successfully intervened.

Leslie Sinoway, 54, from St Leonards-on-Sea, was eating at a pub in Totnes, Devon, when a fish bone became lodged in her throat. Her friend recognised she was choking and used firm back blows, which successfully dislodged the bone.

In another incident, marine engineer Calum Glen was having dinner with his family when he noticed a woman choking at a neighbouring table. Having received first aid training through work, he initially gave five back blows before using abdominal thrusts when the obstruction did not clear. A piece of steak was then dislodged.

St John Ambulance advises that when someone is choking and cannot clear the obstruction by coughing, they should be helped to lean forwards before receiving up to five sharp back blows between the shoulder blades.

If this does not clear the blockage, up to five abdominal thrusts should be given. If the obstruction remains, 999 or 112 should be called and the sequence of back blows and abdominal thrusts repeated until help arrives. If the person becomes unresponsive, CPR may be required.

St John Ambulance has launched a campaign promoting free demonstrations and online first aid guidance, with volunteers set to teach people across the country skills that could help them respond when someone is choking.

The charity is aiming to teach 500,000 people life-saving first aid skills during September.

Stay informed with the stories shaping health and social care.