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National Heimlich Maneuver Day

On National Heimlich Maneuver Day, learn how to save a life and be prepared for any emergency. Don't wait until it's too late!

Tuesday

June 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEJune 1

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYPublic Health

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to brush up on your life-saving skills because June 1 is National Heimlich Maneuver Day! This day commemorates the birthday of Dr. Henry Heimlich, the inventor of the Heimlich maneuver – a technique used to save someone from choking. The maneuver has been credited with saving countless lives and has become an important part of first aid training. So let's take a moment to appreciate and celebrate this simple yet crucial method that can make all the difference in an emergency situation.

TIMELINE

National Heimlich Maneuver Day Timeline

Birth of Dr. Heimlich

Dr. Henry Judah Heimlich, the inventor of the Heimlich maneuver, was born on February 3, 1920, in Wilmington, Delaware.

Invention of Heimlich Maneuver

Dr. Heimlich published his invention, the Heimlich maneuver, as an effective response to choking in the Emergency Medicine journal.

Adoption by Organizations

The American Red Cross and American Heart Association began formally teaching the Heimlich maneuver in their first aid courses.

Heimlich for Drowning Victims

Dr. Heimlich suggested his maneuver could also help drowning victims by forcing water out of the lungs.

Named "Abdominal Thrusts"

In an effort to emphasize the procedure, the American Red Cross began referring to the maneuver as "abdominal thrusts."

National Heimlich Maneuver Day

Celebrated on June 1, National Heimlich Maneuver Day marked its official anniversary for the first time.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Heimlich Maneuver Day

Learn the Heimlich maneuver

Take a first aid or CPR class and learn how to properly perform the Heimlich maneuver. This is a great way to celebrate National Heimlich Maneuver Day and could potentially save someone's life.

Share information on social media

Spread awareness about the importance of knowing the Heimlich maneuver by sharing information and videos on social media. This is a simple yet effective way to celebrate this day and educate others.

HOST

Host a first aid training event

Gather friends, family, or community members and host a first aid training event where you can teach them how to perform the Heimlich maneuver and other life-saving techniques. This is a hands-on and interactive way to celebrate this day.

CREATE

Create a poster or infographic

Get creative and make a visual representation of the Heimlich maneuver to share with others. This could be in the form of a poster or infographic that can be displayed in public spaces to raise awareness.

ORGANIZE

Organize a Heimlich maneuver demonstration

Partner with local first responders or medical professionals to organize a live demonstration of the Heimlich maneuver for the community. This is not only informative but also a fun and engaging way to celebrate National Heimlich Maneuver Day.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Heimlich Maneuver Day is Important

It raises awareness about choking hazards

National Heimlich Maneuver Day also serves as a reminder to be aware of common choking hazards, such as small objects or certain types of food. This can help prevent accidents and keep people safe from potentially dangerous situations.

It can save lives

The Heimlich maneuver is a technique used to dislodge obstructions in someone's airway, potentially saving their life. Learning this skill and spreading awareness about it through National Heimlich Maneuver Day can help prevent choking deaths in emergency situations.

It empowers individuals

Knowing how to perform the Heimlich maneuver gives individuals the power to potentially save someone's life in an emergency situation. This knowledge can boost confidence and provide a sense of security, especially for parents and caregivers.

Related holidays

TUE

Jun 2026

Awareness

National Pet Choking Prevention Day

Don't let your furry friends become victims on National Pet Choking Prevention Day - learn the Heimlich maneuver and keep your pets safe!

National CPR and AED Awareness Week

Spread awareness and save lives during National CPR and AED Awareness Week - learn the skills to be a lifesaver!

National Drowning Prevention Day

Show your support on National Drowning Prevention Day - learn the facts, spread the word, and help save lives!

World Drowning Prevention Day

On World Drowning Prevention Day, let's raise awareness and promote safety measures to prevent tragic accidents in the water. Stay safe and swim smart!

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