Lakewood, NJ boy's helmet catches on playground equipment

LAKEWOOD — A 6-year-old boy was hospitalized in critical condition after he was choked by a piece of playground equipment on Monday evening.

Capt. Greg Staffordsmith said the boy was playing with other children at the park in the Lakewood Commons neighborhood on Coles Way when the bicycle helmet he was wearing got caught on a piece of suspended playground equipment.

The boy's airway became constricted and he lost consciousness.

Other children were able to free the boy from the apparatus and call for help.

First responders successfully administered CPR and took the boy via ambulance to Jersey Shore University Medical Center.

The boy's family told The Lakewood Scoop, which was first to report the incident, that he was in stable condition Tuesday morning. Doctors are seeing very positive signs about his recovery, according to the family.

Dan Alexander is a reporter for New Jersey 101.5. You can reach him at dan.alexander@townsquaremedia.com

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These are the best hiking spots in New Jersey

A trip to New Jersey doesn't have to be all about the beach. Our state has some incredible trails, waterfalls, and lakes to enjoy.

From the Pine Barrens to the Appalachian Trail to the hidden gems of New Jersey, you have plenty of options for a great hike. Hiking is such a great way to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature, plus it's a great workout.

Before you go out on the trails and explore some of our listeners' suggestions, I have some tips on hiking etiquette from the American Hiking Society.

If you are going downhill and run into an uphill hiker, step to the side and give the uphill hiker space. A hiker going uphill has the right of way unless they stop to catch their breath.

Always stay on the trail, you may see side paths, unless they are marked as an official trail, steer clear of them. By going off-trail you may cause damage to the ecosystems around the trail, the plants, and wildlife that live there.

You also do not want to disturb the wildlife you encounter, just keep your distance from the wildlife and continue hiking.

Bicyclists should yield to hikers and horses. Hikers should also yield to horses, but I’m not sure how many horses you will encounter on the trails in New Jersey.

If you are thinking of bringing your dog on your hike, they should be leashed, and make sure to clean up all pet waste.

Lastly, be mindful of the weather, if the trail is too muddy, it's probably best to save your hike for another day.

I asked our listeners for their suggestions of the best hiking spots in New Jersey, check out their suggestions:

A look at 4th Of July parades happening in NJ for 2022

Before fireworks light New Jersey's night sky, celebrate the nation's birthday with a daytime celebration near the coast at one of New Jersey's Independence Day parades.