What should be done first in the event of choking?

In the event of choking, the first and most appropriate action is to encourage the person to cough. Coughing is a natural reflex that can help dislodge the obstruction from the airway. If the person is able to cough, it indicates that they have some airflow and are still partially able to breathe. By encouraging them to cough, you can allow them to use this reflex effectively, potentially clearing the obstruction on their own without further intervention.

This approach is important because it is a less invasive strategy and helps avoid unnecessary procedures when the person may already be able to resolve the issue themselves. Additionally, if someone is coughing forcefully, there is no immediate need for more aggressive measures, such as the Heimlich maneuver or calling for emergency services, which are more appropriate when an individual cannot cough, speak, or breathe.

Using water to drink is not advised as it can lead to further choking and may not help in dislodging the object causing the obstruction. Thus, encouraging a cough is the safest and most effective initial response in this scenario.