The Somali Red Crescent Society (SRCS) has trained hundreds of thousands of volunteers and members of the community in first aid since its inception more than 50 years ago. Now, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) first aid manual has been translated to Somali language, a step forward that will allow volunteers to more effectively learn and study life-saving techniques.

First aid manual

First aid is a fundamental skill that can help reduce injury and suffering, improving the chances of survival for someone in medical need. The ICRC and SRCS in Somalia today mark World First Aid Day 2016 with the launch of the Somali-language manual.

“This new manual will allow our volunteers and members of the community to more effectively learn the skills needed on how to manage a casualty before professional help arrives,” said Yusuf Hassan, the president of the SRCS. The manual is user friendly with clear explanations and illustrations on how to handle a casualty.

When  accidents and injuries happen, first aid may be needed right away to manage bleeding and ensure victims are breathing. A sound medical response in the early minutes after traumatic injury can save a life.

The SRCS has 19 branches in Somalia and 130 sub branches throughout the country. ICRC works with the SRCS to provide first aid training to volunteers and members of the community.

Each year more than 46 million people are reached by Red Cross Red Crescent National Societies with first aid and preventive health messages, while 76 of Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies have First Aid courses designed for children.

A page from the new first aid manual showing how to evacuate a person.