A well-thought-out plan for mass fatality incidents and the funeral profession is essential. Funeral directors and employees possess valuable skills to effectively respond to and manage these scenarios.
Mass fatality incidents present unique challenges requiring a multi-disciplinary approach to oversee the uncertainty that can overwhelm local resources. Funeral professionals have vital experience in handling dead bodies and supporting grieving relatives. They are an asset in facilitating the coordination of organisations during events involving mass fatalities.
Related: Grief and the Role of the Funeral Professional
What are mass fatality incidents?
A mass fatality incident (MFI) is a term used to describe an emergency incident “in which there are more bodies than can be handled using local resources.” (HHS ASPR TRACIE, October 2022)
A minimum number of deaths does not determine a mass fatality event. Instead, it depends on individual communities’ size, resources, and normal capacity. For example, an MFI train derailment in a small rural town in Montana killed three and injured 49 passengers and crew. In contrast, the Türkiye and Syrian earthquakes claimed over 55,000 lives. Both cases involved dispatching emergency responders from outside the local area and volunteers from various communities who provided food and assistance.
Mass fatality incidents include:
- Natural disasters, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, wildfires and floods
- Chemical, biological, or radiological events
- Violence, such as terrorist attacks, mass shootings, and arson-related fires
- Transportation accidents
- Disease and illness, like Covid-19
Preparedness of mass fatality events
Mass fatality incidents, whether caused by nature or human actions, pose significant challenges for local communities and governments and, at times, on a global level. Many MFIs are unpredictable. Weather phenomena, like hurricanes, can be forecast, whereas disasters such as tsunamis and earthquakes are less so.
Authorities must develop comprehensive action plans involving the funeral industry to create a well-coordinated response mitigating potential risks that may emerge in the aftermath. Areas to address could include recognizing health risks to the public from many deceased individuals. Risks “arising from natural hazards is negligible. However, there is a risk of infection arising from consumption of water that is contaminated with feces from a dead person.” (World Health Organization, May 2013)
Increasing capacity to recover, identify, store, repatriate, and properly dispose of bodies is crucial. Reducing administrative processes to expedite the issuing of death certificates is necessary. Some communities can provide additional resources. However, geographical location and the scale of the situation can significantly impact capabilities.
Funeral homes can assist by building relationships with local competitors and establishing a global network in quiet times, enabling them to combine resources in a crisis.
Mass fatalities and the role of the funeral professional
The death care sector can contribute in several ways in the event of mass fatalities.
- Emotional support. One key role is providing excellent communication, as many relatives of the dead or missing seek answers. Funeral professionals are experts at helping vulnerable mourners and addressing communities’ needs.
- Logistical support. Repatriating during mass casualty events presents challenges. Funeral homes have the necessary equipment, such as coffins, transport, and refrigeration storage facilities. The movement of bodies might be via road, sea, or air. In the event of mass fatalities abroad, home governments may arrange aircraft. Transportation may be by military, commercial, or private means. Clear communication and information sharing are vital for seamless repatriation. Funeral professionals can support and liaise with distressed and grieving families.
- Establishing a family assistance center. A Mass Fatality Program should include establishing a Family Assistance Center (FAC) where families and communities can gain information and services. The FAC should focus on the aftermath, be near the mass fatality location, and be an official source of information.
Death care workers “are there as support due to your expertise in key areas: work with grief, sensitivity and compassion, strong interpersonal skills; knowledge of correct words to say/avoid.” (National Funeral Directors Association, 2015) The role is also to protect people from the media and attorneys.
Some people may wish to avoid traveling. Therefore, it is vital to create a network that meets the needs of those elsewhere in the country or overseas. Methods might include virtual calls linked to a hotline or call center.
Coping with difficult situations
Funeral industry professionals are well-versed in navigating complex circumstances when mourners struggle to think logically under stress. It frequently involves coping with difficult situations and interactions with people.
The stress response begins in the brain, triggering a chain reaction of signals, preparing the human body for heightened awareness and a state of “fight-or-flight.” Individuals may react emotionally and irrationally when opting to fight to cope with difficult situations.
People in the funeral field understand the impact of their responses in tense situations. It can mean the difference between escalating or calming a problematic predicament.
Empathy is a valuable trait in the funeral profession. It is essential to understand that anger directed by an individual is not personal. Depersonalizing the situation is necessary to support the family with patience and kindness, keep them updated with information, and inform them if there is nothing new to report.
Death caused by an MFI is sudden and traumatic and is likely to be particularly distressing, especially if a child is involved. Parents don’t anticipate losing a child and experience intense emotions. Funeral directors are kind and adept at meeting a parent’s requirements in an emotionally fraught setting, providing comfort and emotional assistance to grieving parents.
The culture of death
In an event involving mass casualties, funeral companies must be astutely aware of funeral customs across cultures and religions. Religious considerations are a challenging and sensitive area for funeral repatriation. Some require a priest, others ritual washing or embalming.
Related: Religions in the United States – What Every Funeral Director Should Know
Recovery, identification, and documentation issued after an MFI can be demanding for repatriation companies, which must comply with religious requirements.
The funeral profession’s role can facilitate communication by gathering important information from the deceased’s next of kin to convey necessary details. It ensures that all the required information is accurately shared.
A death care professional is ethically obligated to serve families professionally and carefully, be honest and fair, and respect their wishes and confidences, including minor details.
Helping families heal
Funeral professionals can continue to provide support beyond the initial response to the mass fatality incident. They can offer aftercare services to those affected by the tragedy, ensuring a holistic approach to healing and support. Aftercare programs provide contact and resources, helping people navigate the grief cycle.
Funeral homes offer aftercare through various methods, such as emails, newsletters, online resources, cards, workshops, and organising memorials at key times.
