Dealing with an unattended death can be a difficult and emotionally taxing experience. With this guide, we aim to assist you in handling the situation with respect and efficiency, from the initial discovery to engaging professional services.
Step 1: Assess the Situation
Ensure Your Safety
Before approaching, make sure the scene is safe. There should be no hazards such as broken glass, biohazards, or any indication of foul play.
Step 2: Call Emergency Services
Dial 000
Always call 000 immediately if you discover an unattended death. The operator will guide you on what to do next. You might be instructed to perform certain actions or to leave the scene untouched until help arrives. Follow these instructions carefully.
Step 3: Await Authorities
Do Not Interfere with the Scene
It’s crucial to keep the scene intact for police and medical examiners to perform their investigation.
Provide Information
When the authorities arrive, give them as much information as you can. This may include details about when you last saw the person alive, any medical history you are aware of, and any other relevant information.
Identify Yourself
Provide your identification and explain your relationship to the deceased.
Step 4: Notify Family
Contact Next of Kin
If you are not a family member, authorities will usually take responsibility for notifying the next of kin. If it falls to you, do so with sensitivity and care.
Step 5: Legal Considerations
Coroner’s Report
The body will likely be taken by the coroner to determine the cause of death. This process must be completed before any funeral arrangements can be made.
Death Certificate
If you are a family member or spouse, ensure you obtain several copies of the death certificate. You’ll need these for various administrative tasks later on.
Step 6: Arrange for Professional Unattended Death Cleaning Services
Once the body has been removed and investigations are concluded, the premises will need treatments. It is important to engage a professional cleaning service that specialises in unattended death cleanups. These services handle the removal of hazardous materials like bodily fluids and perform thorough treatments and cleaning. This is important to prevent health hazards.
Choose a service that provides compassionate, thorough cleaning and follows National, state and other industry standards and guidelines.
Handling an unattended death requires sensitivity and attention to legal and procedural details. For these difficult situations, we at Kleen Slate Services are here to help. Call us at 95007999 or email us at info@kleenslate.com.au for assistance in Perth Unattended Death Clean Up. We will approach each step of the cleanup process with respect for the deceased and their loved ones.
