What to Do When You Find an Unattended Death: A Complete Guide

What to Do When You Find an Unattended Death: A Complete Guide

What to Do When You Find an Unattended Death: A Complete Guide

Discovering an unattended death can be a traumatic experience. Knowing the proper steps to take can help ensure the situation is handled safely and respectfully.

Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Ensure Your Safety

    • Do not touch or move the body
    • Check for any immediate hazards
    • Ventilate the area if possible

  2. Contact Authorities

    • Call 911 immediately
    • Provide your location and situation
    • Follow dispatcher instructions

  3. Secure the Area

    • Keep others away from the scene
    • Prevent contamination of evidence
    • Wait for authorities to arrive

Who to Contact

In order of priority:

  1. Emergency Services (911)
  2. Local Law Enforcement
  3. Medical Examiner/Coroner
  4. Professional Biohazard Cleanup Services

Understanding the Cleanup Process

Professional unattended death cleanup involves:

  • Removal of biological materials
  • Deep cleaning and disinfection
  • Odor removal and remediation
  • Proper disposal of biohazardous waste
  • Restoration of affected areas

Health and Safety Concerns

Unattended deaths can present several health risks:

  • Bloodborne pathogens
  • Decomposition byproducts
  • Bacterial growth
  • Potential structural damage
  • Air quality issues

When to Call Professional Cleanup Services

Professional cleanup is necessary when:

  • The body has been undiscovered for an extended period
  • There is visible decomposition
  • Biological materials have soaked into surfaces
  • There is a strong odor present
  • The area requires specialized cleaning

Insurance Coverage

Many situations involving unattended deaths may be covered by:

  • Homeowners insurance
  • Property insurance
  • Crime scene cleanup insurance
  • Specialized biohazard insurance

Choosing a Professional Cleanup Service

Look for companies that offer:

  • 24/7 emergency response
  • Proper licensing and certification
  • Experience with unattended deaths
  • Insurance assistance
  • Discretion and respect

The Cleanup Process

Professional cleanup typically includes:

  1. Initial assessment
  2. Removal of contaminated materials
  3. Deep cleaning and disinfection
  4. Odor removal
  5. Final inspection
  6. Documentation for insurance

Emotional Support Resources

Dealing with an unattended death can be emotionally challenging. Consider:

  • Grief counseling services
  • Support groups
  • Mental health professionals
  • Community resources

Prevention and Preparedness

While unattended deaths can't always be prevented, you can:

  • Maintain regular check-ins with vulnerable individuals
  • Have emergency contacts readily available
  • Know the signs of potential issues
  • Keep important documents accessible

Conclusion

Discovering an unattended death is a difficult situation that requires proper handling. Remember to prioritize safety, contact the appropriate authorities, and seek professional cleanup services when needed.

Need professional unattended death cleanup services? Contact us to connect with licensed biohazard cleanup professionals in your area.