40 second life-saver

Elisabeth Farrand, with children Lucas (10) and Jessica (7), used information from the St John Ambulance video to save toddler Stevie’s life

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.