New York Schools Required to Stock Airway Clearance Devices

A new City Council bill is gaining bipartisan support, which mandates that all schools in New York provide “airway clearance devices” to prevent choking-related fatalities.

Sponsored by Bronx Republican Christie Marmorato, the legislation would require city schools to keep portable, suction-based devices on hand. So far, it has garnered backing from 11 Democrats and four Republicans and is expected to go to hearings this month.

These devices are designed for self-use and provide an alternative to the Heimlich maneuver, typically costing between $50 and $70 each. A Long Island-based company, LifeVac, has offered to supply these devices along with instructional videos at no charge to schools throughout the city.

Heidi Felix, LifeVac’s vice president of sales, mentioned that the company has already distributed over 10,000 devices to schools across the country, and they are eager to extend the same offer to New York City.

New York City boasts more than 1,800 public schools, along with around 900 private institutions.

This topic is particularly significant for Marmorato. She recalls a frightening experience eight years ago when her 18-month-old daughter nearly choked on an apple. Marmorato, who is trained in healthcare, was able to save her child but describes the situation as “very scary.”

Additionally, Marmorato reflects on another family tragedy; her grandfather choked while eating in a restaurant 30 years ago when the Heimlich maneuver was unsuccessful.

“This isn’t just about my kids,” she emphasized. “It concerns all kids in New York City. If just one device saves a child’s life, that’s truly remarkable—it’s a win for families.”

Marmorato expressed hope that the law will pass, especially if taxpayers perceive the costs as minimal.

Meanwhile, lawmakers in Albany are also considering a similar bill that would require schools statewide to have “airway clearance devices” in stock.

A spokesperson for City Hall, Zachary Nosanchuk, stated that both the Department of Education and the mayor’s office are reviewing the legislation but emphasized that the Heimlich maneuver remains the preferred method to assist choking children.