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First grader Samir Santana honored after using Heimlich maneuver to save classmate
Summary
The North Providence School Committee presented a citation to first grader Samir Santana after he performed the Heimlich maneuver to dislodge an apple from a classmate uring snack time; Santana said he remembered the technique from health class.
A first grader, Samir Santana, was honored April 29 by the North Providence School Committee after school officials said he used the Heimlich maneuver to free a classmate who was choking on a slice of apple.
Superintendent and committee members presented a formal citation recognizing Santana—or "heroic life-saving efforts." Santana explained that he had learned the maneuver in kindergarten health class and that he remembered the steps when the emergency occurred: "When I was in kindergarten, our health teacher taught us to do the Heimlich, and I paid attention, and I remembered. I knew what to do. So, I did the Heimlich like how they taught me, and the apple came out right away." (Samir Santana)
Why it matters: The committee described the citation as among the most meaningful it presents, highlighting the value of health education and quick action by students in an emergency. The committee encouraged that Santana preserve the citation as a keepsake.
What happened at the meeting: The committee read a formal citation and presented it to Santana and his family, with applause from the room. The citation text states the committee extends its sincerest congratulations and best wishes on the occasion.
