A piece of food is stuck, and there’s no one around… A firefighter-rescuer explains the only thing you can do to save yourself if you’re choking.

If this is happening right now, treat it as an emergency.

If you’re alone and choking

If you cannot breathe, speak, or cough forcefully:

1. Call your local emergency number immediately. If you’re unable to speak, keep the line open if possible. (Mayo Clinic)
2. Make a fist and place it slightly above your belly button.
3. Grab your fist with your other hand.
4. Bend over a firm surface, such as the back of a sturdy chair or a countertop.
5. Drive your fist inward and upward forcefully. Repeat until the object comes out. (Mayo Clinic)
6. If you can still cough forcefully, keep coughing—coughing may clear the obstruction. (Mayo Clinic)

Don’t blindly put your fingers into your throat to search for the food; you can push the obstruction deeper. (Mayo Clinic)

If you’re pregnant or cannot get your arms around your abdomen, chest thrusts are used instead. (Mayo Clinic)

After a significant choking episode, especially if you still have coughing, breathing difficulty, chest/throat pain, or the sensation that something remains stuck, seek medical evaluation. (Mayo Clinic)

American Red Cross choking first-aid guidance