Wellington-based Westpac Rescue Helicopter transports choking victim to hospital

Mon 01/03/2010 21:50

The Wellington-based Westpac Rescue Helicopter transported an man to hospital this evening after he choked while eating dinner.

The helicopter, with a Wellington Free Ambulance paramedic onboard was called to Tinui, about 6 km north west of Castle Point, just after 7pm this evening and was able to land at the patients property.

"As we understand it the man was eating dinner and has swallowed a piece of meat or gristle that has then lodged in his throat" says Colin Larsen, Westpac Rescue Helicopter crewman.

While quite uncomfortable, the man was able to breath without assistance and was transported by helicopter to the Wellington Hospital Emergency Department, where he is currently being further assessed and treated.

For more information please contact:

Colin Larsen
Westpac Rescue Helicopter
021 720512