How AirwayClear Works

AirwayClear 2.0 · How it works

You hold the seal.
The spring creates the pull.

AirwayClear is a spring-powered suction device. Pressing the orange trigger releases the loaded spring. The piston moves upward, creating suction through the mask.

See the basic sequence ↓
Grey AirwayClear 2.0 device with orange trigger and clear face mask

What happens inside

One trigger. A spring-powered suction stroke.

The device is designed to create suction at the mask to help remove an airway obstruction.

The mask

Makes the seal

The mask covers the mouth and nose. A close seal helps keep outside air from leaking in when suction is created.

The orange trigger

Releases the spring

Once the device has been prepared, pressing the trigger releases the loaded spring that drives the suction stroke.

The piston

Moves up through the top

When activated, the piston extends from the top of the device. Its upward movement creates suction through the mask.

Your job is to maintain the seal. The loaded spring supplies the pulling stroke.

The basic sequence

Prepare. Seal. Press. Repeat.

This is an overview of the device, not a replacement for its instructions or choking first-aid training.

  1. 1

    Prepare the device

    Use the correct mask and prepare the device exactly as shown in the instructions included with your kit. Know the loading and storage-pin steps before an emergency.

  2. 2

    Hold a close seal

    Position the mask over the mouth and nose as directed. Keep it firmly sealed while the device operates.

  3. 3

    Press the orange trigger

    The spring drives the piston upward and creates suction.

  4. 4

    Reset & repeat

    After using the device, press the piston back down until it clicks into place. Repeat the process if needed.

Use only for the people and situations specified in the current instructions. Mask size alone does not establish whether the device is suitable for someone.

Before it’s ever needed

Get familiar while things are calm.

Preparation includes knowing choking first aid and understanding your specific device.

  • Read the full instructions, including age and size limits, warnings, preparation and resetting.
  • Identify the mask, storage pin and orange trigger. Learn how the piston moves when activated.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s directions for practice, inspection and storage. Do not test suction on a person.
  • Make sure other caregivers know where the kit and instructions are kept.

A few things worth knowing

Do I have to pull the piston upward myself?

The loaded spring drives the upward suction stroke when you press the trigger. You still need to prepare the device correctly and maintain the mask seal. Follow your kit’s instructions for loading and resetting.

Does this replace back blows, abdominal thrusts or CPR?

No. Follow established choking rescue protocols and call 911. Do not delay those measures to use a device. If the person becomes unresponsive, follow the dispatcher’s instructions and begin CPR according to your training. Anti-choking devices are a second option when established choking measures are unsuccessful.

Know what you’re bringing home.

See the current AirwayClear 2.0 kit and product details.

View AirwayClear 2.0 →

Need the current device instructions? Contact AirwayClear.
Emergency guidance: American Red Cross adult/child choking first aid · Infant choking first aid