[header] How to perform the heimlich maneuver [title] Determine if the person is truly choking. [step] A choking victim will often have their hands around their throat. If you notice someone making this gesture, look for other choking signals. 
You should only perform the heimlich on a choking person. Look for the following : [substeps] Cannot breathe or experiencing loud, difficult breathing cannot speak inability to cough effectively blue or gray color to lips and fingernail beds loss of consciousness [title] Let the person know you're going to perform the heimlich.