Mariposa deputy uses DeCHOKER to save 16-month-old in choking emergency

MARIPOSA, Calif. (FOX26) — A Mariposa deputy was able to save a 16-month-old child from choking thanks to having the right equipment.

Deputies responded to a report of a choking child.

When they arrived, the child was turning blue and was not breathing.

Deputies used a DeCHOKER device and performed one suction pull, dislodging the object blocking the child’s airway and restoring breathing.

The sheriff’s office said the department invested several years ago in DeCHOKER devices, placing one in every patrol vehicle.

The office credited quick action, training, and having the equipment available with saving the child’s life.