First aider reveals step-by-step guide on what to do if you’re choking but ALONE

Choking when you’re alone can seem like a nightmare — but there are steps you can follow, first responders have found.

Everyone needs to know what to do when they’re eating at home alone and their food goes the wrong way, Tiny Heart Education professionals said.

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They advise you to first call emergency services by dialing 999 in the UK.

Once you have done this, you should try to clear the congestion by coughing hard.

If that doesn’t help, it’s time to give yourself first aid for choking.

In a video on TikTok, Australian paramedics showed how you can help remove trapped food from your breathing tube.

Tiny Hearts founder Nikki Jurcutz said, “What to do when you’re choking and alone?”

“This is exactly what happened to my mum last week, so I’m going to tell you exactly what to do if you’re choking and alone.

“The first thing you will do is vote [999].

“Next, try to cough — cough up the obstacle.

“If you can’t cough, here’s what you need to do and it will save your life.

“You only have a few minutes and you must do this immediately.

“Make a fist, place it just above your belly button and place your other hand on top of it.

“Find something high enough to bend over, place your hands there, and then keep pushing down hard until the obstruction is cleared.”

According to the Office for National Statistics, about 276 Britons died from suffocation in 2021.

The NHS recommends encouraging someone who is choking to attempt a cough if it is only a mild obstruction.

If he’s gagging severely, give him five hard smacks behind the shoulder blades with the heel of your hand, or five punches in his stomach if he doesn’t.

To do this, stand behind the choking person, wrap your arms around their waist, clench your fist over their belly button, and place your other hand over it.

You should then pull inwards vigorously.

The health service says to call 999 and call an ambulance if that doesn’t clear the constipation.