When someone is suffocating from a plastic bag over the head or strangulation, the priority is to restore their airway and breathing immediately while protecting them from further harm. Both situations are life-threatening emergencies.
1. Ensure your own safety
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Quickly assess the situation and make sure it’s safe for you to intervene.
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If there is an attacker, call for help and prioritize your safety.
2. Call emergency services immediately
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Dial your local emergency number without delay.
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Explain the cause (plastic bag suffocation or strangulation) because it affects medical response.
3. Remove the cause of suffocation
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Plastic bag:
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Tear or cut open the bag immediately and remove it from the head.
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Ensure fresh air circulation.
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Strangulation (rope, hands, clothing, etc.):
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Loosen or cut the constricting object.
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Be very careful if cutting around the neck (use blunt-tipped scissors if available).
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4. Check responsiveness and breathing
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If the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally → begin CPR immediately.
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If the person is breathing but unconscious → place them in the recovery position to maintain an open airway.
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If the person is struggling to breathe → reassure them, keep airway clear, and monitor closely until help arrives.
5. Provide supportive care
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Loosen tight clothing around the neck and chest.
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If conscious, encourage slow, deep breaths.
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If available and trained, give oxygen.
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Treat visible injuries (cuts, swelling, bruises). Apply cold packs gently to the neck if swelling is present.
6. Watch for delayed complications
Even if the person seems to recover:
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Strangulation can cause internal swelling of the airway, bruising, or brain injury from lack of oxygen.
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Plastic bag suffocation can lead to carbon dioxide buildup and brain damage.
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Always seek urgent hospital evaluation.
7. Do not
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Do not leave the person alone, even if they appear better.
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Do not give them food or drink in case of airway swelling or unconsciousness.
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Do not assume recovery means safety—oxygen deprivation can have hidden consequences.
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