I know only too well what can happen ‘if something goes down the wrong way’..
In medical terms this is referred to as Aspiration. the link gives advice.
Aspiration refers to the entry of food, liquid, saliva, or other materials into the airway instead of the esophagus during swallowing. This can occur when the coordination of muscles involved in swallowing is disrupted. As a result, materials can “go down the wrong pipe,”