40 second life-saver

Reporter: Lucy Kenderdine
Date published: 20 April 2015


AN Oldham mum is urging parents to watch the first-aid video that helped to save her toddler’s life.

The St John Ambulance “Chokeables” campaign includes a 40-second ad explaining what to do if a baby starts choking.

The online ad has celebrities such as David Walliams and Sir John Hurt, voice animated choking hazards and explain what to do if a baby starts choking.

Since being launched in January, it is estimated 30 million people have seen the video, and 36 babies have been saved from choking.

One mother-of-three who put into practice it’s message is Elisabeth Farrand, who used techniques from the video to save her 19-month-old son Stevie.

The 38 year old said: “My older son Lucas (10) saw an advert on TV and said he now knew what to do if he saw a baby choking. He insisted I watch it.”

Days later dad Rick sliced up an apple and put it out for the children - and Stevie took a slice and started to choke.”

“Rick and me raced to unbuckle him from his high chair,” said Elizabeth. “Lucas told us to bang him hard on his back so I threw Stevie over my shoulder and banged him hard several times. After what seemed like a lifetime a small piece of apple shot out of his mouth and he let out an almighty cry.”

Elisabeth said: “Lucas stayed calm and I’m very proud of him. He’s the real hero here as he was so insistent I watch the video and told me what to do.”

Sue Killen, CEO of the St John Ambulance, said: “You are never too young to learn life-saving skills.”

Visit the St John Ambulance website, www.sja.org.uk, for more information on the video and to see a new e-book on the subject.