CPR & Choking Hazards: What to Know About Mardi Gras Treats & Beads

Mardi Gras is all about big fun, bold colors, and even bigger celebrations. From parades and king cakes to beads flying through the air, it’s a time for family, food, and festivity. But amidst all the excitement, there’s a hidden danger many don’t consider: choking hazards.

With Fat Tuesday this week, families across the Gulf Coast and beyond will be indulging in Mardi Gras traditions, and that means plenty of opportunities for little hands (and mouths) to get into things they shouldn’t. Whether it’s a rogue bead, a king cake baby, or a hard candy from a parade throw, it’s important to be prepared for choking emergencies.

Let’s dive into the hidden dangers of Mardi Gras treats and trinkets and what to do if someone starts choking.

The Top Choking Hazards of Mardi Gras

1.      The King Cake Baby Surprise

The Mardi Gras king cake is a must-have treat during Carnival season, but it comes with a fun (and sometimes dangerous) surprise - a tiny plastic baby figurine baked or placed inside the cake. The tradition says that whoever finds the baby brings the next king cake, but for small children, it can be a serious choking risk.

How to keep it safe:

·       If serving king cake to little ones, remove the baby ahead of time and place it next to their slice instead.

·       Make sure guests (especially kids and elderly family members) know to expect the baby inside before biting down.

2.     Beads, Beads, and More Beads

Mardi Gras wouldn’t be complete without necklaces flying from parade floats, but these colorful beads are more than just a fun souvenir—they’re a choking hazard for small children and even pets.

How to keep it safe:

·       Keep beads away from toddlers and babies who might put them in their mouths.

·       Never let children chew or suck on beads—they can break, crack, or cause strangulation.

·       Store excess beads in a secure place, especially after parades.

3.     Parade Throws & Hard Candy

From saltwater taffy to bubble gum and mini chocolates, parade-goers love to catch sweet treats from passing floats. But not all candy is kid-friendly. Hard candy, gum, and chewy sweets can get lodged in the throat, especially for children under five years old.

How to keep it safe:

·       Stick to soft or melt-in-your-mouth treats for younger kids.

·       Always supervise children when eating candy or gum.

·       Encourage older kids to sit down and chew properly rather than eating while running around.

What to Do if Someone Chokes

Even when you take every precaution, accidents can still happen. Knowing how to respond to a choking emergency can save a life.

For Infants (Under 1 Year Old):

1.     Lay the baby face-down on your forearm, supporting their head and neck.

2.     Give five firm back blows between the shoulder blades with the heel of your hand.

3.     If the object doesn’t come out, turn the baby over and give five chest thrusts (using two fingers in the center of their chest).

4.     Repeat until the object is dislodged or the baby starts breathing again.

For Children 1 and Older & Adults:

1.     Ask, “Are you choking?” If they cannot speak, cough, or breathe, act fast.

2.     Stand behind them and place your arms around their waist.

3.     Make a fist and position it above their belly button.

4.     Perform the Heimlich maneuver: Give quick, inward and upward thrusts until the object is expelled.

5.     If the person becomes unresponsive, call 911 and start CPR.

Why Mardi Gras CPR Training is a Must

Mardi Gras is about having a good time, but when emergencies happen, being prepared is the best way to protect your family and friends.

·      CPR training teaches you how to act fast in a crisis—whether it’s a choking emergency, a cardiac arrest, or a breathing problem.

·      Learning the Heimlich maneuver could mean the difference between life and death for someone choking on a parade throw or a festive treat.

·      Knowing basic first aid skills can help you stay calm, take control, and provide life-saving care before emergency responders arrive.

Mardi Gras is a time for celebration, and the best way to keep the party going is to stay safe and be prepared. A little awareness goes a long way in preventing choking hazards, and knowing CPR and first aid can turn anyone into a Mardi Gras hero!