GOD'S CLEANING CREW
After Death Cleanup Course - Part 2
Crime Scene Cleanups Training - Part 2 - Preparing for a Cleanup
Before arriving at the cleanup site, ensure you have all your tools, equipment, and cleaning supplies ready. This preparation should ideally be done at least a day before. For example, while working, if I notice supplies like paper towels or gloves running low, I immediately note it down so I don’t forget.
Check the address of the site, the traffic conditions, and the contact information of the person granting you access. Mentally visualize the location of the cleanup site the day before. If it’s in a busy area, such as downtown, prepare yourself accordingly. Being professional means being on time; if the job is scheduled to start at 9:00 AM, you should arrive by 8:50 AM.
Also, confirm the contact details of the access person. Sometimes, the client authorizing the work and the person providing access are different individuals. Make sure you have their phone number and message them to confirm you’re on your way. Communication is key.
Protective Gear and Safety
Before entering a new scene, always wear your gloves, mask, protective eyewear, and boot covers. This is the bare minimum. If needed, wear a full-body suit as well. Ensure your clothing is appropriate: a full-sleeve T-shirt and full-length trousers are essential. Never arrive at a job site in a half-sleeve T-shirt.
Assessing the Scene
When you enter the scene, first assess the area. Take a moment to observe from a corner, analyzing not just the most impacted areas but the entire site. This will help your brain create a roadmap for the cleanup process. Look for affected areas, including walls, baseboards, doors, and furniture, as blood splatter can often be found in unexpected places.
If any furniture is obstructing your work, be prepared to move it. Before starting, remember to take photos and videos of the scene. Document everything before touching anything. This protects you in case the client claims something is missing, such as jewelry or cash.
When recording, capture the entire scene, not just the impacted areas. Use a wide frame to include the entire room. In my opinion, videos capture about 80% of the reality, while pictures capture about 60%.