Open their mouth to check if the airway is clear. A blockage could be caused by foreign material or the tongue obstructing the airway if the person is unconscious.

In car accidents, the person involved in the crash may be seated upright. Restore their ability to breathe by lifting the person’s chin and moving the jaw forward. Maintaining this will help open their airway and allow them to breathe.

If the airway is blocked:

Place them in the recovery position, with their mouth slightly downward. Wear personal protection on your hands, such as gloves or a cloth, and open their mouth, clearing the airway with your fingers. Once cleared, tilt the head with a chin lift to open the airway.

If the airway is clear:

Leave or place them on their back and open the airway by tilting the head with a chin lift.