GET INVOLVED

How to Get Involved with National Heimlich Maneuver® Week

April 16-22, 2006

Thank you for your interest in National Heimlich Maneuver Week. As you may know, the Heimlich Maneuver® was developed by Henry J. Heimlich, M.D., a thoracic surgeon, for use on choking victims. Before the Maneuver was first introduced in 1974, choking was the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. Today, the Heimlich Maneuver continues to save thousands of lives around the world.

Through National Heimlich Maneuver Week, The Heimlich Institute teaches and reinforces usage of the Maneuver for choking and celebrates the human lives saved while recognizing their rescuers' efforts. Work also continues to find alternate uses for the Maneuver. Studies indicate that, in addition to choking, the Maneuver saves drowning victims, helps asthma sufferers, and may reduce the incidence of death in victims of pulmonary edema (fluid-filled lungs).

As part of its commitment to educating school-aged children, The Heimlich Institute encourages schools, youth groups and clubs to promote and reinforce the proper use of the Heimlich Maneuver for choking victims during National Heimlich Maneuver Week. The Heimlich Maneuver is easy to learn, and anyone, including children, can use it to save themselves or another person.

Below are suggestions for ways to increase your school or organization's awareness of the Heimlich Maneuver.

Hold an educational assembly, in which the proper use of the Heimlich Maneuver is demonstrated. You may have students act out scenarios and practice the technique on a medical practice model, such as a Resusci-Annie mannequin.
Ask students and staff to relate stories of saves with the Heimlich Maneuver, either as survivors or rescuers. Present rescuers with a certificate or button recognizing their achievement.
Posters and T-shirts depicting the proper use of the Heimlich Maneuver are available for sale from The Heimlich Institute. Both shirts and posters may be ordered online, by calling 513.559.2391, or check our printable order form.
Dr. Heimlich is available for public appearances. Dr. Heimlich has traveled extensively, promoting world peace and the exploration of simple and inexpensive medical techniques during visits to countries such as China, Iran, Africa and Vietnam. Through his "Caring World" program and reflection on his medical career, Dr. Heimlich encourages young minds to explore the possibilities for changing the world through simple, yet innovative ideas.

Thank you for your assistance in furthering the educational efforts of The Heimlich Institute through your involvement with National Heimlich Maneuver Week.