I am a caregiver who has experienced the terrifying reality of an elderly client choking. My client, who had Dementia, choked on a piece of watermelon at a buffet restaurant. Despite my efforts to perform the Heimlich maneuver, he passed out in my arms. When I asked the manager for a first aid kit, she said there was none available.

This incident is not isolated; it's part of a larger problem that needs addressing urgently. According to data from the National Safety Council (NSC), choking is the fourth leading cause of unintentional injury death. Of these deaths, 56% are among people aged 75 and older.

We need to ensure that all restaurants have LifeVac choking kits readily available and that at least one manager on duty knows CPR and how to use this life-saving device effectively. This simple requirement could save countless lives each year by providing immediate assistance during such emergencies until professional medical help arrives.

It's time we prioritize safety over convenience in our dining establishments across the country. We owe it not only to our elderly population but also to every individual who walks through those doors expecting not just good food but also an environment where their wellbeing is valued.

Please sign this petition urging lawmakers to mandate LifeVac choking kits and CPR training in all restaurants nationwide - because everyone deserves to dine with peace of mind knowing they're safe from preventable harm.