First Aid at Home: A Practical Guide for Families in Rabat

At home, an accident can happen at any moment: a fall, a kitchen burn, a choking child, an elderly person feeling faint. Knowing a few first aid skills and, above all, knowing when to call for help can make all the difference. This practical guide, designed for families in Rabat, summarises the essential reflexes at home.

The golden rule: protect, alert, rescue

Faced with any accident, follow this sequence. Protect: remove the danger (cut the power, the gas, move a hazardous object) to prevent a second accident. Alert: assess the severity and call for help if needed — 141 (public SAMU) or 150 (Civil Protection) in a life-threatening emergency. Rescue: perform the appropriate actions while waiting for professionals. Always stay calm — that is what allows you to act effectively.

In case of choking

If a person is choking and can no longer cough or speak, act fast: stand behind them, lean them forward and give 5 firm blows between the shoulder blades. If the obstruction persists, perform the abdominal thrust (Heimlich manoeuvre). In an infant, never perform Heimlich: alternate back blows and gentle chest thrusts. If the person loses consciousness, call 141 or 150 immediately.

In case of a burn

Cool the burnt area under lukewarm water (15-25 degrees) for 15 to 20 minutes. Remove rings and non-stuck clothing before the area swells. Never apply butter, toothpaste, oil or home remedies, and do not burst blisters. Cover with a clean cloth. Seek care quickly if the burn is large, deep, or on the face, hands, joints or genitals. A significant burn may then require a dressing by a home nurse.

In case of a fall

After a fall, do not lift the person up immediately, especially if elderly. First check whether they are conscious and in pain. Do not move them if there is intense pain in the hip, back or neck, or visible deformity: this could worsen a fracture. Cover them, reassure them and call for help. If the fall seems minor, help them up gradually and watch for pain or bruising in the following hours.

In case of fainting or loss of consciousness

Faced with a fainting spell, lay the person down and slightly raise their legs. If they are unconscious but breathing normally, place them in the recovery position (on their side) to keep the airway clear, and monitor their breathing. If they are not breathing, begin CPR immediately (compressions at the centre of the chest, 100 to 120 per minute) and call 141 or 150 without delay.

Ambulance or ER: how to choose?

This is a common question. Go directly to the ER (by your own means) for non-life-threatening situations where the person can be transported safely: a small wound, isolated fever, a sprain. Call an ambulance when the condition requires monitoring or equipment during transport, or the person cannot be moved safely. In a life-threatening emergency (cardiac arrest, severe breathing difficulty, suspected stroke or heart attack, major bleeding, loss of consciousness), call 141 or 150 immediately. When in doubt, it is better to call and ask for advice.

Preparing your home

Every home should have an accessible first aid kit (gauze, plasters, antiseptic, gloves, thermometer, saline) and emergency numbers displayed clearly. For families with a vulnerable, elderly or ill relative, a home nursing follow-up provides professional support that usefully complements these basics.

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