WASHINGTON CO. – Washington County Sheriff Brent Miller has purchased Dechokers for all Deputy vehicles.
“The device was brought to my attention by one of the deputies in the department who feels strongly about helping the community,” said Sheriff Miller. “After researching the product, I was in agreement and made the purchase so every road deputy has the tools he or she needs to save lives in Washington County.”
According to the Dechoker website, the Dechoker is an FDA-registered, life-saving device that can be used for choking first aid on anyone, regardless of age, illness, disorder, or other health-related condition.
The Dechoker is an Airway Clearance Device (ACD). The device is placed over the choking victim’s face with a tube placed in the person’s mouth. Pulling the plunger outward creates a negative pressure which assists in removing food or a foreign object that obstructs the airway. This device does not replace the Heimlich Maneuver but can be used if the Heimlich is unsuccessful.
If you have a choking emergency, dial 911 immediately. After sending an ambulance, the 911 Dispatcher will talk you through the steps needed to try to remove the obstruction from the airway. If the efforts do not dislodge the blockage, a responding deputy is now equipped with the device to assist.
Deputies are often the first on the scene because they are out in the community and can arrive before the ambulance can. Having this device can save seconds, and seconds save lives, added Sheriff Miller.
Each vehicle is equipped with 3 different devices one for adults, one for children, and one for infants over 12 months old.
Within weeks of receiving the device a deputy of Washington County used the Dechoker and likely saved a man’s life, said Sheriff Miller.
The Dechoker devices are available for approximately $120 on Amazon. Different sizes are available. These would be excellent to have available in your home, especially for those with small children, added Sheriff Miller.
