London Boy Receives Scout Award for Saving Mother from Choking

A six-year-old boy in London has been given the Chief Scout's Unsung Heroes Award for using first-aid skills to help his mother during a choking incident. Conor Tuohy applied firm back slaps to his mother Anna O'Connor when she began choking on chicken at dinner.

He drew on techniques learned at Squirrel Scouts, the Scout Association's program for children aged four to six. Anna O'Connor said she could not breathe or speak during the episode. Conor Tuohy recalled that he remembered a technique from Squirrels and began tapping her back until the food was dislodged.

The boy was one of 20 children recognized at a recent ceremony for saving lives and contributing to their communities. Chief Scout Dwayne Fields said the recipients had shown courage and care for others. Anna O'Connor has become an advocate for teaching basic first aid to young children.

She said all children should learn the skills and credited her son's Squirrel Scouts training with the outcome. Squirrel Scouts sessions last one hour each week and include outdoor activities, games, and badge work focused on life skills.