NATIONAL HEIMLICH MANEUVER DAY
NATIONAL HEIMLICH MANEUVER DAY
Each year on June 1 we recognize a life-saving technique on National Heimlich Maneuver Day. This important National Day kicks off National Safety Month, which is just one of the many celebrations you can take this month to help save a life.
#HeimlichManeuverDay
The Heimlich Maneuver, also known as Abdominal Thrusts, was created in 1974 by Dr. Henry J. Heimlich. His lifesaving technique uses abdominal thrusts to force air from the lungs. The forced air then expels an object on which someone is choking.
Someone trained to administer the Heimlich Maneuver means the potential for a life saved. While first responders, law enforcement, nurses, physicians, those in elder and child care, and those in high-risk jobs are required to receive training, anyone can receive training. You can make a difference in someone's life by knowing the proper technique of the Heimlich Maneuver. People certified in the Heimlich Maneuver are trained to identify possible choking, how to offer assistance, and provide correct administration of the procedure.
According to the National Safety Council, in 2020, over 3,000 people died from choking.
OBSERVING HEIMLICH MANEUVER DAY
Register for a first aid class that teaches the Heimlich Maneuver.
If you are already trained, encourage someone you know to take a first aid class.
Schedule a day with family and friends to take a class together to become certified in.
The Red Cross offers babysitting courses as young as 11 years old and lifeguard courses as young as 15 years old. Imagine having the entire family prepared to respond in the event of an injury or when someone you love begins choking. Perhaps they never have to use it. Either way, isn't it a skill worth celebrating?
Have you used the Heimlich Maneuver, or has it saved your life? Share your experiences using #HeimlichManeuverDay to post on social media.
NATIONAL HEIMLICH MANEUVER DAY HISTORY
National Day Calendar continues researching the origins of this life-saving event. In the meantime, we encourage you to check out these other safety observances in June: