It is not the responsibility of a layperson to deliver the initial death notification to immediate family members after a sudden death. That duty belongs to public safety officials. However, after the next of kin has been formally notified, others—such as family, friends, coworkers, or neighbors—may need to share the news with others connected to the deceased.

You may find yourself in the difficult position of being the "bearer of bad news." Whether you're a family member calling relatives, a teacher addressing a classroom, or a supervisor notifying employees, it's important to understand the basic principles of providing a compassionate and clear death notification.

Principles of a Caring and Effective Death Notification

• Avoid phone notifications whenever possible. Deliver the news in person.

• Consider the safety and well-being of the person you are notifying. Avoid telling someone while they’re driving or in a vulnerable medical or emotional state.

• Notify close contacts as soon as possible. Don’t delay unless health or safety is a concern.

• Use clear language. Say "died" or "dead" rather than euphemisms like "passed away" or "we lost him," which can be unclear or confusing.

• Be direct. Don’t lead with background information or delay the news. Start with the fact that a death has occurred.

• Be informed. Before you speak with others, gather as much information as you can—how, why, where, and when the death occurred. Be ready to repeat this information, as it may be difficult to absorb at first.

• Be honest. Don’t withhold facts or soften the truth in a way that might create confusion later.