
3
Choke Tester
Under the age of 2, children explore the world by placing anything within reach into
their mouths. It is therefore important to keep small objects that they could choke on
out of reach.
But how small is ”small”?
How to test:
Simply place any small object into the Choke Tester. If the object fits completely
inside the Choke Tester, with nothing protruding past the top diagonal edge, then it is
too small and should be kept away from children under the age of 2.
Not safe
Safe
Additional checks:
• Does a larger object have small parts that could easily be removed and fit
inside the Choke Tester? If so, this should also be kept away from children
under the age of 2.
• Is the object soft and pliable so that it can be squashed to fit inside the
Choke Tester? Again, if this is the case, keep it away from children under
the age of 2.
narrow end (7 mm)
wide end (12 mm)
Finger Probe
Finger-traps are a risk for adults and children alike, but with age and
experience we learn to avoid them. Children under 2 are particularly
at risk from finger-traps as they have not yet learnt to understand
the risk, so it’s important for carers to keep young children away from
them.
How to test:
The Finger Probe has two ends, both of which need to be used when
looking at a potential finger-trap. This Probe only measures possible
finger-traps. Other entrapment hazards in the home could be those for
the skin, head and hip. For example, stair bannisters may not be the
correct spacing.
This Probe identifies finger-traps for children 6-24 months - mobile,
this age-group is most at risk from this type of injury. A different size
Probe should be used for children under 6 months who can access
even smaller openings.
UK