Why basic life support matters for parents and carers

Every parent knows the feeling of watching a child like a hawk, yet accidents can happen in seconds. A toddler might choke on a grape, a child could have a severe allergic reaction, or an infant may stop breathing after a sudden illness. In those first few minutes, what you do can make all the difference. Basic life support is not about being a medical expert – it is about having the confidence to act calmly and effectively until professional help arrives.

Recognising when a child needs emergency help

Before you start any first aid, you need to know when a child is in serious trouble. Gently tap them and ask loudly if they are okay. If there is no response, open the airway by tilting the head back slightly – for an infant, keep the head in a neutral position. Look, listen and feel for normal breathing for no more than 10 seconds. Occasional gasps are not normal breathing.

If the child is unresponsive and not breathing normally, call 999 immediately. If you are alone, put your phone on speaker and start CPR. If someone else is with you, ask them to call while you begin.

CPR for infants and children: the ratios that matter

CPR for children is different from adults because children usually have a breathing problem first. For an infant (under one year) and a child (one year to puberty), start with 5 rescue breaths if you are trained and willing. Then begin chest compressions.

For a single rescuer, use 30 compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths. If two trained rescuers are present, use 15 compressions to 2 breaths. Push down hard and fast in the centre of the chest. For an infant, use two fingers or two thumbs encircling the chest. For a child, use one or two hands. Aim for a depth of about 4 cm for an infant and 5 cm for a child. The rate should be 100 to 120 compressions per minute. Let the chest come back up fully between compressions.

For rescue breaths, cover an infant's mouth and nose with your mouth. For a child, pinch their nose and seal your mouth over theirs. Blow gently for about one second until the chest rises. If it does not rise, reposition the head and try again.

Choking: how to help an infant or child

Choking is one of the most common emergencies parents face. If a child is coughing forcefully, encourage them to keep coughing. If the cough becomes silent or they cannot breathe, act immediately.

For an infant (under one year): Sit down and lay the baby face down along your forearm, supporting the head. Give up to 5 back blows between the shoulder blades with the heel of your hand. If that fails, turn them face up and give up to 5 chest thrusts using two fingers on the centre of the chest. Repeat five back blows and five chest thrusts until the object comes out or help arrives.

For a child (over one year): Stand or kneel behind them. Give up to 5 back blows between the shoulder blades. If that fails, give up to 5 abdominal thrusts (Heimlich manoeuvre). Place a fist just above the navel, grasp it with your other hand, and pull sharply inwards and upwards. Alternate five back blows and five abdominal thrusts. Call 999 if the object does not come out quickly.

Calling for help and using a defibrillator in the UK

In the UK, call 999 for an ambulance. If you are alone with a collapsed child, use your phone on speaker. The call handler can guide you through CPR and tell you where the nearest public defibrillator is located.

Defibrillators (AEDs) can be used on children. For a child under eight, use paediatric pads if available. If not, use adult pads, placing one on the front and one on the back if possible. For infants, a manual defibrillator is preferred, but an AED with paediatric pads can be used. Follow the voice prompts. Do not delay CPR to find a defibrillator – ask someone else to fetch it while you continue.

Preparing your household for emergencies

Being prepared makes a real difference. Keep a well-stocked first aid kit at home and in the car. Include plasters, bandages, antiseptic wipes, a thermometer, children's paracetamol or ibuprofen (check age guidance), and any prescription medicines. Also keep a list of emergency contacts and any allergies.

Learn where your nearest defibrillator is located. Many UK communities have them at village halls, schools, and shops. Take a paediatric first aid course from a reputable provider. Practise with your family – teach older children how to call 999 and what to say. Role-play simple scenarios and keep a written emergency plan on the fridge.

Finally, trust your instincts. If you are worried about a child's breathing, responsiveness, or a choking incident, call 999. It is always better to seek help. With a little knowledge and practice, you can be the calm, capable person your child needs in an emergency.