Finding a dead body is a shocking and traumatic experience for any person and touching or moving a dead body can risk your health and safety. The body of a deceased person has infectious bacteria that can infect those who come in contact with it. Individuals should ensure their safety and follow the right protocols when finding a dead body.
The most important thing to do when finding a dead body is to remain calm, sensible, and orderly. There are some essential steps to consider when finding a deceased body:
- Ensure Your Own Safety – If you have come across a vehicular accident, communicate the seriousness of the situation and call for help. If you feel like you could be in danger, leave from that place and call 911.
- Do Not Touch Anything – Deceased bodies can begin decomposing very quickly. Do not touch skin or body fluid, as the body may contain potential bloodborne pathogens that can infect you and others.
- Survey The Scene – Observe the whole setting and see if you can find any clues that match a possible cause of death while waiting for the paramedics group. That way you can convey the information accurately to the professionals involved in the case.
- Cooperate with medical professionals and police – Since you found the body, you may be questioned by law enforcement. Be cooperative and try to remember how you came upon the scene.
- If it’s your responsibility to clean up, strongly consider getting professional assistance – Sometimes a dead body is found in the home by a friend or relative, in which case cleanup is the responsibility of family or the property owner. If you are tasked with cleanup, it is recommended to seek professional assistance.
Sterile Pros is a professional crime scene and trauma cleanup company that clean up after a death in the California area. For almost twenty years, we have helped individuals and families by cleaning and disinfecting home and property after a death. If you should find a dead body and need assistance when cleaning up, contact us online or call us at 844-BIO-CREW.