5 Most Common Choking Hazards for Babies

The love that we have for our babies is immeasurable, infinite, and undeniable. We will do anything just to keep them safe, secure, nurtured, and protected. But do you know that there are a lot of things around us that can endanger their lives?

Here are five of the most common choking hazards that you must be aware of:

1. Balloons

We would all surely agree that balloons are extremely cute and very pleasing to the eyes. They easily catch the attention of our kids and make them highly interested with their colors. A crying baby can even be pacified by just allowing her to play with a balloon.

Most balloons that are used in birthday parties or celebrations are made of latex material. These latex balloons can pop easily with parts scattering in different directions. Once your child gets just a tiny part from the popped balloon, then she could potentially be in great danger.

Remember, balloons are some of the most dangerous choking hazards for your little ones. They even account for almost 50% of the deaths caused by choking in hospitals.

1. Popcorn, Nuts & Candies

You may not have any intention of giving your toddler these goods yet, but what if you suddenly left your bowl of popcorn on the table and she starts munching on them? Popcorns, nuts, and candies are really so delectable that they are so hard to resist. But know that these foods are essentially difficult to chew. Never ever attempt to give your little ones this food unless you are certain that they can fully chew on them.

3. Hotdogs

If you are health-conscious and really intentional on the snacks that you offer your children, then you may not be worrying so much about the choking hazard posed by hotdogs. But if you happen to just be cool with giving such a treat from time to time, then you have to be wary about handing a whole hotdog to your toddler. Ideally, you will have to cut the hotdog into bits and pieces to make sure that your child is able to chew on it properly.

Hotdogs are the main choking hazards among children. Their cylindrical form easily causes an obstruction in a toddler’s airway.

4. Button Batteries

Have you ever noticed that most of the children’s toys require button batteries to fully operate? That’s actually a very ironic fact. Shouldn’t toy manufacturers be more intentional in protecting the welfare of children?

But if your little one happens to have a toy that is battery-operated, make sure that it is properly secured. It would be best if these toys would have screws for the battery placement so that your child won’t be able to remove them on her own.

5. Coins

How many of us would carelessly place our loose change on top of the table or just anywhere? Coins can be a very dangerous thing when placed in the presence of curious little children. Once these coins are swallowed, they could stay on the esophagus of our little child and cause fatal choking.

Although it is very impossible to look at our children every second of their life, I would still advise that you offer much effort in protecting your little ones from every possible danger in her surroundings. Your supervision is crucial to keeping her safe, alive, and well.