Choking: A Silent Danger for Young Children
Toddler Was Choking — and Time Was Running Out
Recently, a dramatic video released by the Tampa Police Department made headlines — body cam footage captured the terrifying moments when officers responded to a 911 call about a choking toddler.
The video is heart-stopping.
You hear the panic. You see a parent rush a lifeless child toward the officer. And you watch, breath held, as first responders do what they were trained to do — saving the child’s life through swift, decisive action.
It’s a moment that ended with relief, tears, and a safe child.
But it could have ended very differently. And for many families each year, it does.
Choking: A Silent Danger for Young Children
Choking is the leading cause of injury-related death in children under 1, and it remains a serious risk for toddlers and preschoolers. The younger the child, the higher the risk — and often, the less obvious the signs.
Unlike in movies, choking is rarely loud or dramatic. In fact, it’s usually silent. There’s no time for hesitation — every second counts.
Why children are at risk:
Small airways: It takes very little to block a baby or toddler’s airway.
Underdeveloped chewing ability: Even with teeth, young children may not chew thoroughly.
Oral exploration: Babies explore the world by putting everything in their mouths.
Common foods and toys can become hazards.
What You Need to Know About the Incident in Tampa
The body cam footage (which you can view here) shows exactly how critical a few seconds can be.
A toddler was already turning blue and unresponsive by the time officers arrived.
The responding officers immediately began chest compressions and back blows, using techniques appropriate for a small child.
Within moments, the child began breathing again — a miraculous and powerful moment captured on camera.
This wasn’t luck. This was training. Preparation. Confidence under pressure.
Could You Do the Same?
It’s a hard question, but an important one: Would you know what to do if your child choked in front of you?
Most parents say no — or aren’t confident in their answer. And understandably so. In a moment of panic, unless you’ve been trained (and practiced), your brain might freeze.
But here’s the good news: You can learn. And you can prepare.
Choking First Aid: What Every Parent Needs to Know
For infants (under 1 year):
Do not perform the Heimlich.
Use 5 back blows (firm slaps between the shoulder blades while the baby is face-down across your forearm).
Follow with 5 chest thrusts (use two fingers at the center of the chest, just below the nipple line).
Continue alternating until the object comes out or the infant becomes unresponsive.
For toddlers and children (1 and older):
Stand or kneel behind the child.
Place a fist just above the belly button.
Perform quick, inward-and-upward thrusts (the Heimlich maneuver).
Repeat until the object is expelled or the child becomes unconscious.
Back blows are also appropriate
If the child becomes unresponsive:
Call 911.
Begin CPR immediately and continue until emergency services arrive.
Prevention Starts at Home
While not all choking events are preventable, many are — simply by making small changes in how we feed and supervise children.
Choking Hazards by Age:
Under 4 years: Avoid whole grapes, hot dogs, popcorn, hard candy, raw veggies, nuts, seeds, chewing gum.
Small toys or parts: Avoid anything smaller than a toilet paper roll in diameter.
Latex balloons: These can mold to the airway and are a leading cause of choking deaths from toys.
Feeding Safety Tips:
Always supervise meals.
Encourage sitting upright while eating — not walking or running.
Cut food into pea-sized pieces for toddlers.
Teach children to chew slowly and not overfill their mouths.
Be Proactive, Not Reactive
Watching the Tampa footage, one thought comes to mind: What if no one had known what to do?
Training in CPR and choking first aid can literally mean the difference between life and death — and that’s not an exaggeration.
At House Calls for Kids, we’re committed to giving families the confidence and skills they need in the most important moments. Our Newborn & Child First Aid Course teaches:
CPR and choking rescue techniques by age
How to recognize serious vs. minor breathing issues
Real-world tips on keeping your child safe from day one
We also offer in-home or group classes, because we believe that education should meet families where they are. (More on this to come!)
What This Video Teaches Us
The Tampa choking rescue is a story of quick action, bravery, and the power of preparation.
But it’s also a wake-up call for every caregiver, teacher, and grandparent. Emergencies don’t wait until you’re ready. And kids don’t come with instruction manuals.
Learning first aid isn’t just smart parenting. It’s essential.
So if you’re reading this, consider it your nudge. Whether it’s joining a local CPR class, practicing with your partner, or reviewing your home for hazards — do one thing this week to better prepare.
Because the child whose life gets saved might be yours.