During an emergency, if an individual shows signs of choking, you should:

When an individual shows signs of choking, it is crucial to act quickly and decisively to help them. Performing abdominal thrusts is the recommended course of action in such an emergency. This technique, commonly known as the Heimlich maneuver, involves creating pressure in the abdominal area to expel an obstruction from the airway. The goal is to generate enough force to dislodge the object causing the choking, allowing the person to breathe again.

Encouraging the individual to cough may not be effective if they are unable to cough forcefully or are struggling to breathe. Additionally, giving water can be harmful, as it might cause the object to become lodged more deeply or lead to further complications. Waiting for someone to recover is not advisable as it could allow the situation to worsen, leading to a life-threatening condition. Therefore, understanding the importance of abdominal thrusts in alleviating choking situations is essential for providing effective first aid.