Essential First Aid Skills to Know in Morocco

Knowing first aid can make the difference between life and death while waiting for health professionals. Whether at home, at work or in the street, a quick and appropriate response saves lives. In Morocco, dial 141 (public SAMU) or 150 (Civil Protection) in an emergency.

The recovery position

The recovery position applies to an unconscious person who is breathing normally. It prevents the tongue from blocking the airway and avoids choking on vomit. After confirming the person is unconscious but breathing, gently roll them onto their side and tilt the head slightly back to keep the airway clear, then monitor breathing until help arrives.

CPR (cardiac massage)

If a person stops breathing and does not respond, start CPR immediately. Place the victim on their back on a hard surface. Put the heel of one hand in the centre of the chest, the other on top. With straight arms, compress the sternum 5 to 6 cm at a rhythm of 100 to 120 compressions per minute, without stopping until help arrives.

The choking manoeuvre

If a person is choking and can no longer cough, speak or breathe, stand behind them, lean them forward and give 5 firm blows between the shoulder blades. If this fails, perform the Heimlich manoeuvre. Never perform Heimlich on an infant: alternate back blows and gentle chest thrusts with two fingers.

Burns

For a burn, the first step is to cool the area under lukewarm water (15-25 degrees) for 15 to 20 minutes. Never apply toothpaste, butter, oil or home remedies. Do not burst blisters. Cover with a clean, damp cloth. Seek care if the burn is large, deep, or on the face, hands or genitals.

Bleeding and wounds

For heavy bleeding, lay the person down and press firmly on the wound with a clean cloth for at least 10 minutes, without releasing. A wound dressing by a home nurse is recommended for significant or poorly healing wounds.

Building a first aid kit

Every home should have an accessible kit: sterile gauze, plasters, elastic bandage, antiseptic, round-tipped scissors, disposable gloves, a thermometer and saline. Check expiry dates every six months. For families with a vulnerable member, a home nursing follow-up usefully complements these basics.

Disclaimer: this guide is informational and does not replace certified first aid training or professional advice. In a life-threatening emergency, call 141 or 150.