disaster 5th 1108_5th ed 2011 - Homeland Security and Emergency ...

DEALING WITH DEATH OR MASS CASUALTIES
Quite often natural or man-made disasters bring not only destruction but
death to a community. Sometimes First Responders cannot reach a disaster
site for hours, days or weeks so citizens should be prepared to deal with
death or the handling of dead bodies.
IF INADISASTER SITUATION WITH CASUALTIES AND NO HELP…
• Dead bodies do not cause epidemics after a natural disaster.
It’s survivors who will most likely spread disease.
• Don’t put yourself in danger to recover a body if there is any
chemical, biological or radiological contamination in the
area or structural damage due to an earthquake, etc.
• People handling bodies should wear gloves and boots and
avoid wiping their face or mouth with their hands. (Face
masks aren’t needed but may be helpful to some handlers.)
Wash hands with soap and clean water often, and disinfect
tools, clothing, equipment and vehicles used to move the
bodies.
• Bodies often leak feces after death so avoid contact with it
(and body fluids) to limit exposure to any possible diseases.
• If no First Responders are on scene (and it may be a while
before any are), write down any known details about where
and when a body was found, name (if known), personal
belongings on or with the body, take a photo (if possible) to
help with identification later, etc.
IF ALOVED ONE DIES…
In addition to dealing with the sadness and loss, there are several things
families may need to think about and plan for if they lose a loved one
during a disaster or crisis.
• Realize some bodies may never be recovered or could be
contaminated in certain types of disasters so families may
not have the body released to them.
• Determine who is Executor of the will (if any) and make 10
to 12 certified copies of death certificate (for probate, insurance
benefits, bank accounts, social security, etc.) The
www.itsadisaster.net or call 1-888-999-4325
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