The Heimlich Maneuver: How to Perform This Life-Saving Technique

The Heimlich maneuver is one of the most well-known first aid techniques for saving someone who is choking. Invented in the 1970s by Dr. Henry Heimlich, it has saved countless lives over the years. While it’s simple to learn, it’s also easy to panic and forget the steps during an emergency. This guide will help you understand when and how to use it correctly, so you can act fast when every second matters.

When to Use the Heimlich Maneuver

You should only perform the Heimlich maneuver if:

  • The person cannot breathe, speak, or cough

  • They are clutching their throat (the universal choking sign)

  • Their face is turning blue or they are losing consciousness

If the person can still cough forcefully or speak, encourage them to keep coughing — don’t perform the maneuver unless the airway is fully blocked.

How to Perform the Heimlich Maneuver on an Adult

  1. Stand Behind the Person
    Position yourself slightly to one side so you can support their weight if they faint.

  2. Wrap Your Arms Around Their Waist
    Make a fist with one hand and place it just above the person’s belly button.

  3. Grasp Your Fist with the Other Hand
    Keep your thumb side facing inward toward the person’s abdomen.

  4. Perform Quick, Upward Thrusts
    Push sharply inward and upward — imagine trying to lift the person slightly.

  5. Repeat Until the Object is Expelled
    Continue until the blockage comes out or the person can breathe again.

Special Considerations

  • Children (Over 1 Year Old) — Use gentler thrusts and kneel if necessary to match their height.

  • Pregnant or Obese Individuals — Position your hands higher, at the breastbone, to avoid injury.

  • Yourself — If you’re alone and choking, press your upper abdomen against a sturdy surface (like a chair or countertop) and thrust yourself forward.

The Role of Choking Rescue Devices

While the Heimlich maneuver is effective, it may not always work, especially in cases involving children, the elderly, or when you’re alone. This is where a choking rescue device can be a life-saving backup — simple, fast, and safe for all ages.

Final Thought:
Learning the Heimlich maneuver is one of the most valuable skills you can have. Practice it, teach it to your family, and keep a rescue device nearby. In a choking emergency, your quick action could be the reason someone lives to see another day.

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