National Heimlich Maneuver Day

June 1st is National Heimlich Maneuver Day. This day is dedicated to spreading awareness about a life-saving technique called the Heimlich Maneuver.

The Heimlich Maneuver is a technique used to help someone who is choking on food or a foreign object. It was invented by Dr. Henry Heimlich in 1974. The technique involves standing behind the person who is choking and placing your fists between their rib cage and naval. Then, you apply pressure and force upward until the object is dislodged from their throat.

It is important for everyone to know how to perform the Heimlich Maneuver, as choking can happen to anyone, anywhere. In fact, choking is the fourth leading cause of accidental death in the United States. Knowing how to perform the Heimlich Maneuver can save someone's life.

To perform the Heimlich Maneuver on an adult, you should follow these steps:

1. Stand behind the person and wrap your arms around their waist.
2. Make a fist with one hand and place it above the person's belly button.
3. Grab your fist with your other hand and press forcefully upward into the person's stomach.
4. Repeat until the object is dislodged or the person becomes unconscious.

For children, the Heimlich Maneuver is slightly different. You should follow these steps:

1. Stand or kneel behind the child.
2. Place one fist slightly above their belly button.
3. Grab your fist with your other hand and press upward into the child's stomach.
4. Repeat until the object is dislodged or the child becomes unconscious.

If the person becomes unconscious, it is important to begin CPR immediately and call for emergency medical help.

On National Heimlich Maneuver Day, organizations and individuals across the country promote the importance of knowing how to perform the Heimlich Maneuver. Schools, community centers, and workplaces may hold events or classes to teach people this life-saving technique.

It is also important to note that prevention is key in avoiding choking incidents. Chewing food thoroughly and avoiding talking or laughing while eating can help reduce the risk of choking.