Media Management in Body Recovery from Mass Death

The media are often the major means of communication about disasters. Accurate information about such events is critical for the public perception of what has transpired and likely next steps. It is the responsibility of all persons involved in the recovery of bodies from mass death to provide truthful and accurate information to the media. However, there should be only a limited number of persons who are authorized to provide information to the media. Such information, while accurate and truthful, must respect and be sensitive to the dead, the living, and the workers. Guidelines are applicable before, during, and after the event. The following information applies to United States authorities. These practices may help you to provide the media with the best possible information.