What To Do When Someone Dies: The first 24 hours
Experiencing the death of a loved one is an immensely challenging and emotional time. Knowing what to do in the first 24 hours can help alleviate some of the stress and ensure that everything is handled properly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this difficult period.
What To Do When Someone Dies: The first 24 hours
1. Confirm the Death
The first and most crucial step is to confirm that your loved one has indeed passed away. If the death occurs at home and was unexpected, call emergency services immediately. They will send paramedics and possibly the police to confirm the death. If the person was under medical care, contact their doctor or the palliative care team.
2. Notify Family and Close Friends
Once the death has been confirmed, it’s important to notify close family members and friends. This is not just about sharing the news but also about garnering support during this trying time. You might want to delegate this task to a trusted friend or relative who can help you spread the word.
3. Contact a Funeral Director
One of the first professional calls you’ll need to make is to a funeral director. They will guide you through the process of transporting the body and can begin helping you plan the funeral. At Tobin Brothers, we offer round-the-clock support, every day of the year, to help ease the burden during this time.
Please call us as soon as possible so we can help guide you through the process.
4. Consider Cultural and Religious Practices
Different cultures and religions have specific practices and rituals that should be observed after someone dies. It’s essential to consider these traditions when making decisions in the first 24 hours. If you are unsure about any practices, our Funeral Advice Line can provide guidance.
5. Gather Important Documents
You will need to gather important documents such as the deceased’s identification, birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), and any pre-paid funeral plans they may have arranged. These documents will be necessary for registering the death and planning the funeral.
6. Register the Death
In Australia, a death must be registered with the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages within a specified time frame, usually within five days. Your funeral planner will assist you with this process. You will need the deceased’s Medical Certificate of Cause of Death, which will be provided by the doctor who confirmed the death, or from the coroner.
The Death Certificate can take a number of weeks to arrive depending on turnaround times from Births Deaths and Marriages.
7. Secure Property and Personal Belongings
Ensure the deceased’s property is secured, especially if they lived alone. This includes locking the home, securing any valuables, and possibly notifying the landlord or property manager. You may also need to take care of pets and notify neighbours or other relevant parties.
It’s not something we like to think about, but playing it safe can prevent further heartache during an already difficult time.
8. Inform Relevant Organisations
You will need to inform various organisations about the death. This includes the deceased’s employer, insurance companies, banks, and any government agencies providing benefits. Many of these notifications can wait a few days, but starting the process early can be helpful.
9. Take Care of Yourself
Amidst all the tasks and responsibilities, it’s crucial to take care of your own well-being. Grieving is a natural process, and it’s important to allow yourself to feel and process your emotions. Lean on friends, family, or professional counsellors for support.
10. Begin Planning the Funeral
While the funeral itself might not happen within the first 24 hours, beginning to plan can help give you a sense of control and direction. Consider what type of service you want, whether it’s a traditional funeral, a cremation, or something unique that reflects the deceased’s wishes. Your funeral director can provide options and help you make these decisions.
We're here for you when you need us.
The first 24 hours after losing a loved one can be overwhelming, but taking these steps can help you manage the immediate tasks and ensure that everything is handled with care and respect. Remember, you don’t have to go through this alone. Our team is here to provide support and guidance every step of the way, ensuring that your loved one is honoured in the best possible way.
By following this guide, you can navigate the initial stages of loss with clarity and compassion, focusing on what truly matters – honouring and remembering your loved one.
For more information or immediate assistance, please contact the Tobin Brothers Funerals Funeral Advice Line. We are here to help you through this difficult time.
Wendy Goy
Manager - Human Resources and Training, Tobin Brothers Funerals
Want an accurate estimate of Funeral Costs?
Find out more about Funeral Costs and get a free Funeral Fee Proposal on our Funeral Costs Page.
