First steps in the event of death
If the person dies at home
If a death occurs at home, first call 9-1-1.
Urgence Santé (Québec) will come to the house and sign an Attestation of Death (SP-3). If the death was expected, be sure to mention this when speaking with the 9-1-1 operator. This will avoid unnecessary sirens at their arrival.
A family physician may also come to your house to sign and prepare an Attestation of Death but he/she may not be available if the death occurs at night. Once the attestation is completed, call us and we will arrange for the immediate transfer of your loved one to the funeral home.
If the person dies in hospital or other facility
If a death occurs in a hospital, nursing home or other institution, contact us as soon as possible. The funeral director will contact the institution to get permission to transfer your loved one to the funeral home.
Meeting with the funeral director
Next, your family will meet with the funeral director to discuss funeral arrangements. When meeting with the family, the funeral director will take note of all family information necessary to complete a Declaration of Death for the Québec government. The funeral director will write a memo of all charges covering professional services, merchandise and disbursements. The funeral director will also provide assistance in drafting, translating and faxing a newspaper notice. All liaisons with cemetery, clergy, church, florist and others connected to the service can also be taken care of by the funeral director.
The family may bring clothing for the dressing of the loved one at the first meeting with the funeral director or as soon as possible before visitations. Clothing may include a favorite suit or dress (not necessarily formal), undergarments, socks, pantyhose and the like. Shoes are not necessary but may be brought. Make-up and perfume from the deceased can also be provided.