NATIONAL HEIMLICH MANEUVER DAY | JUNE 1
Each year on June 1st, National Heimlich Maneuver Day recognizes a life-saving technique. The Heimlich Maneuver uses abdominal thrusts to force air from the lungs. The forced air expels an object on which someone is choking. Dr. Henry J. Heimlich created this life-saving procedure in 1974. “The Heimlich Maneuver” is also referred to as “Abdominal Thrusts.” The observance also kicks off National Safety Month, and the Heimlich Maneuver is just one of the many steps you can take this month.
#HeimlichManeuverDay
According to the National Safety Council, in 2015, over 5,000 people died from choking. Since certified instructors teach the Heimlich Procedure, the American Red Cross and other organizations include the training as part of their first aid and CPR courses.
Being trained to administer the Heimlich Maneuver properly may save a life. Courses also teach you how to identify possible choking, how to offer assistance and correct administration of the procedure. There are also modified approaches for young children. Each person trained 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 may make the difference in someone’s life dining next to you or even someone you know.
HOW TO OBSERVE HEIMLICH MANEUVER DAY
Register for a first aid class that teaches the Heimlich Maneuver. Already trained? Encourage someone you know to take a first aid class. You can also invite someone to join you or make it a family event.
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:
- Men’s Health Month
- World Food Safety Day
- CPR and AED Awareness Week
- Men’s Health Week
- Lightning Safety Week
June 1st Celebrated (and Not So Celebrated) History
1813
“Don’t give up the ship.” ~Capt. James Lawrence
During a losing battle at sea aboard the U.S. frigate Chesapeake, Captain Lawrence gave his final command before dying, “Don’t give up the ship.” The phrase became a popular naval battle cry.
1937
Amelia Earhart and Frank Noonan depart from Oakland, California on their doomed attempt at flying around the world.
1944
Mexico City bans the ancient custom of siestas at mid-day in an attempt to curb tire and gasoline shortages. Businesses that once closed from 1 pm – 3 pm were required to be open and allow a 30-minute lunch for workers.
1980
The first 24-hour news channel launches. Owned by cable magnate, Ted Turner, CNN (Cable News Network) broadcast for the first time.
June 1st Celebrated (and Not So Celebrated) Birthdays
Brigham Young – 1833
The American religious leader served as the second president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Dr. Henry Faulds – 1843
In 1896, the Scottish doctor and missionary established the use of fingerprinting for Bengal criminal forms. Faulds developed a means of fingerprint classification. In 1880, his article in the Scientific Journal Nature explained how fingerprints serve as a means of personal identification, how to collect and record them.
Francis and Freelan Stanley – 1849
The inventive twin brothers are best known for the development of steam-powered cars. They successfully pitted their automobiles against gas-powered engines winning races across the country.
Frank Whittle – 1907
The British engineer and pilot developed jet-propelled aircraft. His pioneering innovations led to the first jet fighter in the RAF squadron.
Marilyn Monroe – 1926
Born Norma Jeane Mortenson, the American model, actress, and singer became one of Hollywood’s leading performers. Her roles in dramas and comedies played to her sex symbol status. Some of her most noted films include Some Like It Hot, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, and The Seven Year Itch.
Andy Griffith – 1926
The American actor was best known for his wholesome role as Andy Taylor on The Andy Griffith Show. He also starred in the mystery series Matlock.
Morgan Freeman – 1937
Morgan Freeman first started his acting career on the soap opera, Another World and the PBS children’s show, The Electric Company. His enduring career spans more than 45 years.
Colleen McCullough – 1937
Australian author is best known for her romance novel The Thorn Birds.
