Publish date: 22 June 2026
Some families have been asking our health visitors about suction based anti choking devices (eg. LifeVac, Dechoker), which are widely available online.
-
Current guidance does not support routine use
-
The Resuscitation Council UK advises there is insufficient evidence on safety or effectiveness and warns that use may delay established choking treatments
- Established first aid must always come first
Follow basic life support:- Encourage coughing
- Give up to five back blows
- Give up to five abdominal thrusts (or chest thrusts for infants)
- Start CPR if the child becomes unresponsive
- Devices should not delay first aid
If you work with families please reinforce that these devices are not a substitute for first aid and should not interrupt it - Safety concerns about products
MHRA warns that counterfeit or unregulated devices are widely sold online and may fail or worsen choking.
What to say to families
Our Health Vistor Portal has been updated with this important information.
Provide balanced, evidence based information and emphasise that knowing and acting on first aid is the most important life saving step. This document has images and advice on differences to look for.
Read more: