You may have seen them online.
Anti-choking devices being sold at a fraction of the price — often through marketplaces or social media ads. They look almost identical to well-known brands and promise quick results.
But there’s something really important to understand:
Not all anti-choking devices are created equal
There are some regulated anti-choking devices on the market that have undergone testing and are used in specific situations. However, counterfeit or unregulated versions do not offer the same reassurance around safety or effectiveness.
There has been a huge rise in counterfeit (fake or unregulated) devices.
These often:
- Look identical to recognised brands
- Are much cheaper
- Have no clear testing or safety standards
And that’s where the concern lies.
The real problem with counterfeit devices
Choking is a time-critical emergency.
There is no room for:
- uncertainty
- trial and error
- equipment that may fail
Instead of immediately starting:
- back blows
- chest thrusts
A caregiver may:
- reach for the device
- try to use it
- try again
Those seconds matter.
With counterfeit or unregulated devices, there is no reliable evidence that they will work as intended.
Counterfeit versions may:
- not create proper suction
- break or fail
- not fit correctly
In an emergency, that’s a huge unknown.
They can increase panic
More steps = more stress.
- Which way round does it go?
- Is it working?
- Should I keep going?
This slows people down.
What the evidence supports
Guidance from Resuscitation Council UK is clear:
First-line treatment is:
- Back blows
- Chest thrusts (babies)
- Abdominal thrusts (children)
These are:
✔️ Immediate
✔️ Proven
✔️ Effective
A calm, honest takeaway
It’s completely understandable to want something “extra” to keep your child safe.
But in this case:
The most powerful tools you have are your hands and your knowledge.
What actually helps in a choking emergency
- Recognising choking quickly
- Acting immediately
- Using simple techniques
No equipment
No delay
No uncertainty
Final thought
If you already have one of these fake devices, don’t panic.
But I would gently encourage you to:
- check the gov.uk website for recalled products https://www.gov.uk/product-safety-alerts-reports-recalls
- ask for a refund!!
- not rely on it
- be cautious about where it came from
- prioritise learning first aid
Want to feel more confident?
Learning what to do in a choking emergency is one of the most empowering things you can do as a parent.
And it doesn’t have to be scary… just simple, practical, and clear.