Members of the C.F.P.A. were called upon to help a choking patron while dining at the Pantry recently. Members were ready to perform the life saving Heimlich maneuver but it appeared the gentleman was breathing and the food was dislodged. Members 401,423, & 427 awaited Los Angeles City Fire Paramedic's and watched as they did their work-up. The med-man attempted to communicate to the victim and they could tell he still had something blocking his wind pipe so as they prepared to transport and prior to pulling away, the guy threw up a hunk of unchewed steak bigger than Jeff Miller's left shoe (a size 12). Now that members 401,423 & 427 were sick to their stomachs they waved "bye" to the victim and returned to the Pantry parking lot to catch their breath and try to keep their dinner down. [ For complete details and demonstration, see Scott Meadows].
Signs & Symptons of choking.:
Clutching throat/initial coughing with gasping followed by in-ability to cough, speak, or breathe while eating / blue or gray skin / Loss of consciousness.
If the person is conscious and can stand up, wrap arms around person from behind. Make fist with one hand, covering it with the other. Place thumb side( top of fist) just above navel but under rib cage. Thrust fist sharply up-ward & back into person's abdomen. Repeat 4 times.