Despite Coronavirus and COVID19, there are things that must continue. Public safety, health and hospitals, grocers, shipping and distribution, banking and finance all carry on. Unfortunately, be it related to COVID19 or otherwise, people die. Based on social norms, religious practice, and family tradition, we mourn our dead, typically coming together to see them off to the afterlife. Obviously, we need not risk our own lives to mourn the dead.
With the recommendation for gatherings being no more than ten people, we should understand that this will likely mean only immediate family, or just a few select family members to be physically present for services. There has been some great guidance going out from the National Funeral Director’s Association (NFDA) for funeral home directors and other related practitioners based upon information from and consultation with the CDC and other public health experts. The CDC’s COVID19 site also has an FAQ for funerals (and other topics). The NFDA recommends that funeral home directors and religious facilities provide live streams of services for loved ones who may not be able to attend services.
Public safety agencies, emergency management offices, and other government officials may be getting inquiries about the conduct of funeral services. It’s important that we know where to go for this information.
Be smart, stay safe, stay healthy, and be good to each other.
© 2020 Timothy Riecker, CEDP
The Contrarian Emergency Manager 