Why should you not give water to a person who is choking?

When a person is choking, their airway is blocked, making it difficult or impossible for them to breathe. Providing water can exacerbate the situation for several reasons. If a person is unable to swallow properly due to the obstruction, introducing water could lead to further choking or aspiration, where the liquid enters the airway instead of the esophagus. The primary concern in choking is to clear the obstruction and restore airflow rather than introducing anything that could complicate the condition.

In contrast, aiding dislodging the obstruction typically involves other techniques, such as back blows or abdominal thrusts, rather than introducing liquids. Additionally, while water might seem comforting, it does not directly address the airway blockage and could potentially increase anxiety for the person who is experiencing choking. Effective first aid procedures prioritize immediate action that ensures the airway is cleared and breathing is restored without introducing additional risks.