Calgary First Aid: Toddler Dies After Choking at Gatineau Daycare
A tragic incident in Gatineau, Quebec, has highlighted the serious risks of choking in young children and the importance of first aid training for caregivers and childcare professionals.
According to a report by Presse Canadienne, later published by the Montreal Gazette, a 13-month-old boy died after choking on food while eating at his daycare on Wednesday, May 12, 2016.
Original source: Toddler dies after choking at Gatineau daycare – Montreal Gazette
What Happened at the Daycare
The incident occurred at approximately 11:45 a.m. at CPE La Ribambelle, located in the Aylmer sector of Gatineau. When daycare staff noticed the toddler was in distress, they immediately attempted first aid and resuscitation measures.
Despite their efforts, the child was transported by ambulance to a hospital in Hull, where he was later pronounced dead.
Police and Coroner Investigation
The Service de police de la Ville de Gatineau stated that investigators do not believe there was any criminal intent involved. As required under Quebec policy, the Quebec coroner launched an investigation, which applies to all deaths involving children under the age of six. An autopsy was scheduled to confirm the cause of death.
Choking Risks in Infants and Toddlers
Choking remains one of the most dangerous emergencies involving infants and toddlers. Young children have smaller airways and are still developing proper chewing and swallowing skills, making mealtimes especially risky without close supervision.
In choking emergencies, every second matters. Knowing how to recognize distress and apply age-appropriate first aid techniques can help keep airways clear while emergency services are on the way.
Why First Aid Training Is Essential
Incidents like this reinforce why first aid and CPR training is essential for parents, caregivers, and daycare staff. While emergencies cannot always be prevented, proper training allows individuals to respond quickly, calmly, and effectively.
At Calgary First Aid, we offer comprehensive courses that teach choking response, CPR, and other life-saving skills. Our Standard First Aid and CPR courses are designed to prepare people for real-world emergencies involving infants, children, and adults.
Be Prepared to Protect Young Lives
Emergencies often happen without warning. Learning first aid is not just about certification—it’s about being ready to act when it matters most.
Proper training gives caregivers the confidence and skills needed to respond during choking incidents and other medical emergencies involving children.
Learn More About Infant First Aid
For additional trusted information on choking prevention and infant first aid techniques, visit:
Infant First Aid for Choking and CPR – BabyCenter
https://www.babycenter.com/0_infant-first-aid-for-choking-and-cpr-an-illustrated-guide_9298.bcBasic First Aid Guide – WikiHow
https://www.wikihow.com/Do-Basic-First-AidFirst Aid Information – WebMD
https://www.webmd.com/first-aid/default.htm
This heartbreaking loss serves as a reminder of how vital first aid knowledge is in childcare settings and everyday life.
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