Gain the knowledge, confidence and practical skills to prevent choking incidents and respond quickly and effectively in an emergency with this Preventing Choking with LifeVac® training course. Designed for workplaces and care environments across the UK, this half day programme equips learners with essential life saving awareness and hands on skills to manage choking risks and respond appropriately when it matters most.
Ideal for organisations looking to improve safety, reduce risk, and protect vulnerable individuals, this course supports staff in recognising choking hazards, understanding prevention strategies, and responding effectively in real world situations. Whether you work in a care home, school, hospitality setting or any environment where individuals may be at risk, having trained staff can make a critical difference.
This immersive and practical course combines expert instruction with realistic scenarios, giving learners the skills to identify risks, prevent incidents, and take control during a choking emergency. Participants will gain a clear understanding of choking response techniques alongside the safe use of the LifeVac® device, particularly in situations where traditional methods may not be appropriate or effective.
Optional Equipment Supply
In addition to delivering training, we can also support your organisation with access to official LifeVac® devices at reduced rates compared to standard retail pricing. This allows businesses and individuals to not only gain the knowledge and skills required, but also have the appropriate equipment readily available if needed.
We can supply LifeVac® devices as part of your on‑site training for teams, ensuring staff are trained using the same equipment that will be available in their workplace. Alternatively, if you attend one of our open courses and wish to purchase a LifeVac® device for personal or workplace use, this can also be arranged at a discounted rate.
Please speak to us before or during your training if you are interested in adding a LifeVac® device, and we will be happy to discuss the most suitable options for your needs.
What this course offers
Delivered over 3½ hours, this engaging training course focuses on both prevention and emergency response, ensuring learners can manage choking risks proactively as well as react confidently when required. The course explores the underlying causes of choking, including swallowing difficulties (dysphagia), which are a key contributing factor in many incidents.
Participants will develop practical skills in identifying high risk situations, supporting safe eating and drinking, and responding appropriately in emergency scenarios. The training also introduces the LifeVac® airway clearance device a non invasive suction device designed to remove airway obstructions when standard choking techniques have failed.
Through hands on practice and real life scenarios, learners leave with the confidence to act quickly, reduce risk, and support the safety and wellbeing of those in their care.
Why this training matters
Choking incidents can occur without warning and may escalate rapidly, particularly for individuals with underlying health conditions or swallowing difficulties. In many cases, traditional techniques such as back blows or abdominal thrusts may not be possible or effective.
This course helps organisations improve safety standards while empowering staff to respond confidently and competently in high pressure situations. It supports a proactive approach to risk management, helping to prevent incidents before they occur while ensuring staff are prepared to act if they do.
By combining prevention, awareness and practical intervention, this training helps build a safer environment and equips learners with the confidence to potentially save a life.
Course benefits
Learn how to prevent choking incidents through safer practices and risk awareness
Gain confidence in responding quickly and effectively during a choking emergency
Understand the causes of choking, including dysphagia and high risk foods
Develop practical skills to support individuals in a range of environments
Receive hands on training in the safe use of the LifeVac® device
Improve overall safety standards within your organisation
Gain a recognised certificate to demonstrate competence and understanding
Certification and progression
On successful completion, learners receive a Preventing Choking with LifeVac® certificate, valid for 12 months. Regular refresher training is recommended to maintain confidence, reinforce safe practice, and ensure skills remain current and effective.
Some may know this type of training as choking prevention, choking first aid, or airway clearance training. Others may recognise the equipment as an “anti‑choking device” or by brand names such as DeChoker® or similar devices, however this course focuses on the safe use of the LifeVac® device alongside best practice in choking prevention and emergency response.
