Choking Risks in Schools: How Teachers and Staff Can Be Prepared

Choking is a serious concern in schools, particularly for young children who are still mastering the art of chewing and swallowing safely. Understanding the risk factors for choking and knowing how to prevent and respond to choking incidents can save lives. This guide will help teachers and staff recognise high choking risk foods, common choking risks for children, and best practices for creating a safe environment.

Understanding Choking Risks in Schools

Schools are bustling environments where children are often on the move, and mealtimes or snack breaks can present unexpected dangers. The risk factors for choking are higher among children under five, but older students can also be at risk, especially those with specific needs or disabilities. Choking occurs when an object, often food, becomes lodged in the airway, blocking air passage to the lungs. Recognising the signs of choking and being prepared to act can make a critical difference.

High Choking Risk Foods in Schools

Certain foods pose a higher choking risk, especially for young children. These foods are typically hard, round, sticky, or difficult to chew. Here are some high choking risk foods that teachers and staff should be mindful of:

• Hard Lollies and Chewing Gum: These can easily become lodged in the throat and are difficult to remove.
• Hot Dogs and Sausages: These should be cut lengthwise and into small pieces to reduce choking risks.
• Grapes and Cherry Tomatoes: These foods should be sliced into quarters to avoid blocking the airway.
• Nuts and Seeds: Small and hard, these can easily slip into the windpipe.
• Popcorn: Its small size and unpredictable texture make it a choking hazard.
• Marshmallows and Sticky Foods: These can mold to the shape of the throat and block airflow.

Teachers should ensure that these foods are served appropriately or avoided altogether in school settings. Active supervision during mealtimes is essential, and students should be encouraged to eat slowly and sit down while eating to minimise choking risks.

Non-Food Choking Risks for Children

While food is the most common choking hazard, non-food items also pose significant risks, especially in environments where small objects are within reach. Common choking risks for children include:

• Toys with Small Parts: Small, detachable pieces and accessories can be hazardous.
• Coins and Small Objects: These are easy to swallow and can cause choking.
• Balloons: Deflated or broken balloons are a leading cause of choking deaths among children.
• Stationery Items: Items like pen caps, erasers, and small batteries can easily be put in the mouth.

Schools should regularly inspect classrooms and play areas for small objects that could pose a choking risk. Teachers can use a choking rescue kit as part of their emergency preparedness plan to address any choking incidents swiftly and effectively.

Choking Prevention and Choking Risks: Creating a Safe School Environment

Preventing choking in schools requires a proactive approach. Here are some essential steps that teachers and staff can take to reduce choking risks:

1. Supervise Mealtimes and Snack Breaks

Active supervision is crucial when children are eating. Teachers and staff should monitor students closely, ensuring that they are seated and focused on eating rather than talking, laughing, or playing. Encourage children to chew their food thoroughly and not rush through meals.

2. Educate Students About Choking Risks

Awareness is a powerful tool in preventing choking incidents. Educate students on the dangers of putting non-food items in their mouths and the importance of chewing food properly. Implementing lessons on safe eating habits can empower students to make safer choices. Always educate your students to recognise the signs of choking and get a teacher quickly to help prevent a serious incident occurring.

3. Modify High-Risk Foods

Modify or avoid serving high-risk foods in school. For example, cut grapes, cherry tomatoes, and hot dogs into smaller, safer pieces. Avoid offering hard candy, nuts, and popcorn to younger students. Always be mindful of individual dietary needs that may increase choking risks.

4. Keep Small Objects Out of Reach

Regularly inspect the classroom and playground for small items that could be choking hazards. Store small toys, stationery, and other objects securely out of reach of younger children. Ensure that age-appropriate toys are used, and check for wear and tear that could create small, detachable parts.

Be Prepared with Choking First Aid Procedures

Knowing how to respond to a choking emergency is essential for all school staff. Here’s a basic outline of choking first aid procedures:

1. Recognise the Signs of Choking

A choking child may clutch their throat, have difficulty breathing, or be unable to speak. They may exhibit panicked behaviour, wheezing, or turn blue due to lack of oxygen. If the child is conscious and can cough, encourage them to continue, as this can help dislodge the object.

2. Administer First Aid

If coughing doesn’t clear the blockage, follow these steps:

For Conscious Children:

Bend the child forward and deliver up to five sharp back blows between the shoulder blades using the heel of your hand. If the back blows don’t work, perform up to five chest thrusts by standing behind the child and applying quick, thrusts to the chest at the cpr compression point..

For Unconscious Children:

Call emergency services immediately.

Begin CPR if the child is unresponsive, starting with chest compressions. Having an emergency choking device on hand, such as LifeVac, can provide a reliable solution when traditional first aid methods are not enough, including in unconscious casualties.. These devices are designed to be simple to use and can be a valuable addition to a school’s safety protocols.

Equip Your School with Life-Saving Tools

Schools should consider equipping themselves with a child choking device and a choking rescue kit to be better prepared for emergencies. These devices are designed to quickly and effectively clear obstructions from a child's airway, providing peace of mind for teachers, staff, and parents alike.

Equip Your School to Safeguard Students from Choking Risks

Choking risks in schools is a serious concern, but with proper preparation and vigilance, teachers and staff can significantly reduce these risks. By understanding the risk factors for choking, modifying high-risk foods, and being prepared with the right tools and knowledge, schools can create a safer environment for all students. 

Remember, quick action and the right equipment can save lives. Equip your school with the necessary resources, stay vigilant, and ensure every child’s safety during meals and play.