In the first hours after a death at home, almost nothing feels clear. This is a simple, gentle guide for families in Madison — not a list of demands, just a steadying hand.
Make sure everyone present is safe and supported. If anyone is in crisis, call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, any time.
Law enforcement and the coroner or medical examiner will need to complete their work first. Follow their guidance, and do not disturb the scene until they release it.
This is the most important thing we can tell you. The scene can carry real biological hazards, and cleaning it yourself can deepen the trauma in ways that last. It is not your job, and it does not have to be.
There is no clock on this. Whether it is an hour later or the next day, we will be here — and we will take the cleanup, the insurance, and the details off your shoulders.
If you are facing this right now, you do not have to decide everything alone. Call Madison Bio Recovery at (608) 975-5563 — a real person answers, 24 hours a day.