The one car trip rule paramedic parent has for kids: 'Non-negotiable'
By Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh |
Most parents have handed their child a snack to eat while in the car without giving it a second thought - but a paramedic has warned mums and dads the common act can be incredibly dangerous.
Calling it a 'parenting non-negotiable', mum and paramedic Nikki from Tiny Hearts Foundation says you should never let your child eat in the car. She says it can lead to a devastating outcome - choking.
In a video posted to the Tiny Hearts Education Instagram page, Nikki began by saying she never allows her children to eat in the car unless she is in the backseat and supervising them.
"Remember guys, chocking is silent. If you're driving and concentrating on the road you are not going to hear it and not going to be aware, especially when your little one is rearward facing," Nikki states.
READ MORE: Jacinda Ardern's daughter interrupts live broadcast
Nikki notes time is a critical factor in saving a child's life if they begin to choke on food. Whether your child is facing forward or backward or in a car seat at all, she says it isn't safe for them to be eating as there is no one around to immediate assist them.
She reminded parents to ensure they are trained in first-aid to help assist their child if there is ever an emergency.
Followers thanked Nikki for sharing the warning as the danger was something they had never considered. "Wow didn't even think of that! Thank you for sharing", one mum wrote.
READ MORE: Mum's battle with 'terrifying' postnatal anxiety
Another mum revealed her own harrowing experience.
"My middle child choked in the car. I saw him right away because we weren't actually driving, but he was in his chair," she said.
"The time it took me to get out, run to his door, get him out of my chair with my shaking hands and start back blows was far too long for my comfort. It was terrifying to say the least. So yes this is important."
For a daily dose of 9Honey, subscribe to our newsletter here
