When Every Second Counts: Choking Response & First Aid for Young Children Stats and Facts

FACTS

• Young children have narrow airways and immature chewing skills.
• Choking often happens without warning.
• Food is the most common choking hazard.
• Early response prevents oxygen deprivation.
• Training improves speed and confidence during emergencies.

STATS

• The U.S. CDC reports choking as a leading cause of injury-related death in children under five.
• In the U.S., thousands of children are treated in emergency departments each year for choking incidents.
• Food items such as grapes, hot dogs, nuts, and hard candy are among the most common choking hazards.
• Canadian injury surveillance data shows choking as a leading cause of non-fatal injury hospitalizations in young children.