(9-24-26) Van Wert High School student Noah Hilleryโฆwhile at dinner with his Van Wert cross country team this past weekend, noticed that a teammate was choking and quickly stepped in to perform the Heimlich Maneuver, successfully dislodging the food.
The Heimlich maneuver (also called abdominal thrusts) is an emergency first-aid technique used to clear a blocked airway in a choking person who cannot breathe, speak, or cough effectively.
It works by forcing air from the lungs to expel the obstruction. Current guidelines from organizations such as the American Heart Association (AHA) and American Red Cross generally recommend alternating 5 back blows with 5 abdominal thrusts for conscious adults and children older than 1 year.
Noah was recognized by Van Wert Fire Department Chief Jon Jones, where Noah is completing his CEO placement and was presented with a challenge coin for his quick thinking and willingness to help.
Custom Fire Department challenge coins can symbolize bravery, camaraderie and service.
