WHAT TO DO WHEN SOMEONE PASSES AWAY IN YOUR PRESENCE
- Remain calm
- Close the eyes and mouth of the deceased and straighten the arms and legs
- Remove jewellery from the deceased
- If possible, lift the deceased onto the floor with feet facing the door
- Cover the whole body from head to toe with a sheet
- Light a candle near the head of the deceased
- Open the windows
- Do not talk unnecessarily in the room
- Do not eat, drink or smoke in the room
- Contact the Chevra Kadisha
- The Chevra Kadisha will return your call to make arrangements to pick up the body of the deceased
- If the deceased was a male, give the Tallis of the deceased to the Chevra Kadisha when they arrive
- Contact the family Rabbi and/or local Shul
- Contact the family doctor or the doctor treating the patient in hospital
- Contact the family members
- Where possible, have a copy of the deceased’s Identity Book
- When the Chevra Kadisha arrive be sure that they give you the Compassion Pack containing, amongst other items, a Handbook for Mourners, which will guide you regarding funeral arrangements and mourning practices
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