April 9, 2009
Vol. 39, No. 141

For more information, contact Sgt. Gregory Rhodes, Fish and Wildlife Enforcement, 302-739-9913 or 302-542-6102, or Joanna Wilson, Public Affairs, 302-739-9902.

Fish and Wildlife Agent Assists
Choking Victim at St. Georges Restaurant

            At noon yesterday, April 8, three Fish and Wildlife Enforcement agents who stopped by St. Georges Country Store for lunch found themselves unexpectedly called to duty.

Hearing cries for help from the restaurant’s kitchen, one of the agents, Senior Cpl. Richard Blaasch, responded and found owner Margi Michini attempting to perform the Heimlich maneuver on her husband, Joe Michini, owner and chef, who was choking and in obvious distress. Blaasch took over from Mrs. Michini and was able to clear Mr. Michini’s airway. An off-duty EMT who was also in the restaurant checked out Mr. Michini and it was determined he did not require further attention.

“Like all police officers, our Fish and Wildlife agents are trained in first aid and basic rescue techniques, including the Heimlich maneuver. Senior Corporal Blaasch relied on his training and experience to respond quickly and correctly in this tense situation, and I am glad he was there to help,” said Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Chief James Graybeal, commending Blaasch for his actions.

For further information, contact Sgt. Gregory Rhodes, Fish and Wildlife Enforcement, at 302-542-6102 or 302-739-9913.