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ResQVac questions and answers

These answers come from our product manual, customer service notes and the public sources listed at the end. Where we do not know something, we say so.

Last updated 2026-11-04

Safety and FDA

What should I do if someone is choking?

Call 911 or your local emergency number and follow the dispatcher. If the person cannot cough, speak or breathe, give 5 back blows and then 5 abdominal thrusts, and repeat. For a baby under 1 year, give 5 back blows and then 5 chest thrusts, and repeat. If the person becomes unresponsive, start CPR. Do not delay these steps to find a device. Sources: American Heart Association, American Red Cross.

When, if ever, should this device be used?

Only after you have called 911 and back blows and thrusts have failed, on a person with a complete block. That matches what FDA says: established protocols first, and a device as a second option if they are unsuccessful.

Is ResQVac FDA approved, cleared or authorized?

We have no FDA clearance or authorization on file for this device, and no clinical study on file for it. FDA says these devices must have marketing authorization to be lawfully marketed in the U.S. and that, as of March 4, 2026, it had authorized one. We have nothing on file that shows ResQVac is that device. See FDA's page and our plain-words summary.

Is it better than the Heimlich maneuver or back blows?

No. We make no such claim. FDA says established protocols are the most effective method to relieve a blocked airway. The 2025 American Heart Association guideline says the evidence does not show suction devices are better than back blows or abdominal thrusts. Abdominal thrusts are the same thing as the Heimlich maneuver.

Has it been tested in a clinical study? Does it work?

We have no clinical study on file for this device and no suction measurements on file. We cannot tell you how often it works or how fast. We do not make claims about results.

Can it hurt someone?

FDA has reports of problems with anti-choking devices: failure to clear the block because of lack of suction, bruising around the face, lips and mouth, and scratches in the back of the throat. FDA also warns that using a device before the established steps could delay them. Source: FDA.

Is the device intended for medical use?

The manual says it is not intended for medical use, although it says it may be used in emergency situations. Call emergency services and follow recognized first aid whenever someone is choking.

Do I need first aid training?

Yes, get it. Three steps on a page do not replace it. Training teaches you to spot a complete block and do back blows and thrusts, which come first. Classes are listed by the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association. The American Heart Association also advises refreshing your skills over time.

Babies, children and using it on yourself

Can I use it on a baby under 1 year?

We do not advise it. The manual has no infant instructions, and the one device FDA had authorized as of March 2026 is indicated only for people at least 1 year old. For a baby, call 911 and use back blows and chest thrusts. Do not use abdominal thrusts on a baby. Steps: first aid guide.

Can it be used on children?

A pediatric mask is in the box, but the manual gives no age limits or child-specific instructions. We cannot tell you it suits a child of any given age. The 2025 pediatric guideline says effectiveness and safety of suction devices have not been established in infants and children. Use back blows and abdominal thrusts, and call 911.

Does the clear tube go with the child mask?

The clear plastic Open Tube is a separate part and does not go inside the device. The supplier sheet calls it an optional aid to help open the mouth. We have no instructions linking it to either mask. We advise leaving it out unless a trained person tells you otherwise. More on the how-to page.

Can I use it on myself if I am alone?

Our product manual describes using it on another person and has no self-use instructions. The printed card in the box appears to include pictures of a person using it on themselves. We have no evidence on self-use and do not advise relying on it. If you are alone and choking, the American Red Cross says to call 911, even if you cannot speak, and give yourself abdominal thrusts or press your abdomen against a firm object such as a chair back. Avoid sharp edges.

Using and looking after it

How does it work?

The handle and plunger create negative pressure. That produces suction when the mask forms a seal over the nose and mouth. There is no power source.

How do I use it?

After 911 and failed first aid: place the mask over the nose and mouth, press and hold the holder and vent valve to make a seal, then pull back the handle and plunger. The how-to page has the full order, the cautions and troubleshooting.

What if nothing comes out on the first pull?

The manual says to keep pushing and pulling without taking the mask off the face. Stay on the line with emergency services. If the person becomes unresponsive, stop and start CPR.

Does it come with different mask sizes?

Yes. One adult mask and one pediatric mask.

Is it reusable? How do I clean it?

The manual does not say whether the device or masks can be reused, or how to clean them. So we do not tell you it is reusable. Do not count on a device that has been used on someone for a later emergency. Contact support if this happens.

Can I buy spare masks or parts?

No, spare parts are not offered. If a part was missing from your box, tell support and we send it.

Orders

What is your return policy for ResQVac?

You can return it within 90 days of delivery and you do not need to give a reason. An unused and undamaged device gets a full refund of the product price. A used or damaged device is still accepted, with the refund less a 15% restocking fee. Original shipping is not refundable and you pay return shipping. Details: shipping, returns and warranty.

What does the ResQVac warranty cover?

The ResQVac on your order has a lifetime warranty. Add-ons and bonus items are not covered. We do not repair units. We troubleshoot with you first, then ask for a short video, and send a new one if it still does not work. Details: shipping, returns and warranty.

How much is shipping and how long does it take?

The exact US shipping cost is shown at checkout before you pay. In-stock US orders usually take 2 to 5 business days in transit, and tracking is emailed to you. High demand can delay orders. For other countries, checkout shows the cost and timing.

Why does my order say Anti-Choke Device Pro?

That is another name for the same product. So is Rescue Vac.

How do I reach support?

Email support@myhealiq.com or call 1 (888) 864-9156, Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM Pacific. Support cannot give first aid advice during an emergency. Call 911.

Sources

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