What to Do When Someone Dies at Home Unexpectedly

An unexpected death at home is disorienting, and it’s normal not to know what to do in the first few minutes. Here’s the immediate sequence.

What should I do right away? Should I try CPR?

Call 911 right away. This is the first and most important step, even if you’re fairly certain the person has died. If there’s any chance the person is still alive, call 911 immediately and follow the dispatcher’s instructions, which may include CPR. If death is unmistakable (the person has been unresponsive for a long period with clear signs of death), still call 911 and let responders make that determination. Emergency dispatchers are trained to guide you through this moment.

Why shouldn’t I move the body?

Depending on the circumstances, a medical examiner or coroner may need to examine the scene to determine the cause of death. Moving the body - or disturbing the area around it - can complicate that process. This can feel harsh to hear in a moment of grief, but it’s a standard, impersonal part of how unexpected deaths are handled everywhere.

What happens after first responders arrive? Will there be an autopsy?

Emergency responders will assess the situation. If death is confirmed, depending on your state and the circumstances, a medical examiner or coroner may be called to determine whether an investigation or autopsy is needed. This is routine for unexpected deaths and isn’t a reflection of suspicion about what happened. Not every case involves an autopsy - whether one is required depends on the circumstances and local law, and the medical examiner or coroner will make that determination, not the family.

How long until the body can be released to a funeral home?

Once the medical examiner or coroner releases the body - which can take anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days depending on the situation - you can contact a funeral home to take over from there. The medical examiner’s office can tell you what to expect in your specific situation. See our guide on choosing a funeral home right after a death if you haven’t already made arrangements.

Is it okay to lean on someone right now?

Yes. This is an enormous amount to process at once. If there’s a friend, neighbor, or family member who can come sit with you while you make these calls, it’s okay to ask.

For how the two kinds of office differ and what to ask them, see Coroner vs. medical examiner: what’s the difference.

For how autopsies work and how long results take, see Autopsy explained: when it’s done, who pays, and how long results take.

Specific procedures after an unexpected death vary by state and circumstance. Local emergency responders and the medical examiner’s office will guide you through what applies in your situation.