Be prepared

Did you know that more than 2,800 people die each year as a result of choking? This is the time of the year when many families and friends get together for large meals and good times. Would you be able to recognize if a family member or friend started to choke? Do you know what activities might lead to choking?

Here are some common causes of choking

• Trying to swallow large pieces of poorly chewed food.
• Drinking alcohol before or during meals. Alcohol dulls the nerves that aid in swallowing.
• Wearing dentures. Dentures make it difficult to sense whether food is fully chewed before it is swallowed.
• Eating while talking excitedly or laughing.
• Eating too fast.
• Walking, playing, or running with food or objects in the mouth.

These are just some of the causes of choking. If you want to learn more about the signals of choking or the care needed to give to a person who is choking, sign up for a Red Cross CPR course.

Contact the Tulsa Area Chapter at (918) 831-1126 or visit our online schedule for a list of courses in your area.