The majority of childhood suffocations, strangulations and chokings occur in the home. Children are more likely to suffocate during the summer months and choke during the winter months. Children can suffocate when they become trapped in household appliances, such as refrigerators or dryers, and toy chests. Choking The majority of childhood choking injuries and deaths are associated with food items. Children are at risk from choking on small, round foods such as hot dogs, candies, nuts, grapes, carrots and popcorn.
Nonfood items tend to be round or conforming objects, including coins, small balls and balloons.
Balloons are the most common cause of toy-related choking death among children. Unlike other causes of choking death, balloon-related deaths are as common among children ages 3 and older as among younger children. Peanuts are the most common item that results in childhood choking injuries. Coins, especially pennies, are the most common non-food item that results in childhood choking injuries. Strangulation Strangulation occurs among children when consumer products become wrapped around their necks.