Video:How to Do the Heimlich Maneuver

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Transcript:How to Do the Heimlich Maneuver

Hi, I'm Rod Brouhard, your Guide to First Aid at About.com. Choking can happen to anyone of any age. Reacting quickly and correctly to a choking victim may very well save a life.

Remain Calm During an Emergency

First, stay calm. If the victim is coughing, encourage him to continue until the object is out. If you believe a person can't breathe, ask.

Move Into Heimlich Maneuver Position

Move behind the victim. Put your arms around the victim's middle with your fist just above the belly button. Cover your fist with the other hand.

Perform the Heimlich Maneuver

Quickly and forcefully thrust inward and upward in a hook-like motion. Repeat these thrusts until the victim coughs up the food or object. If the victim becomes unconscious, begin CPR.

Authorities disagree on whether back slaps are effective for choking victims. It's not incorrect to slap a victim on the back, but it's probably not necessary, either. For more information, visit us on the Web at firstaid.about.com.