When and How To Use the Heimlich Maneuver

Do not interfere with a person who is coughing forcefully. However, if the person can't cough, talk or breathe, have someone call 9-1-1 while you administer the Heimlich Maneuver as follows:

• Stand behind the choking person and put your arms around him or her.
• Clench your fist and place it with your thumb inward just above the navel, below the breastbone and between the rib cage. If the choking victim is pregnant or extremely obese, place your fist on the chest instead of on the abdomen.
• Grasp your fist with your other hand and, bending your elbows, pull both hands toward you with a quick upward and inward thrust. Repeat these thrusts until the blockage is dislodged. Stop if the choking person becomes unconscious.

Any choking victim who is able to breathe again should still be examined by a doctor as soon as possible since the abdominal thrusts can damage the liver and other internal organs.