Cremation Options

Today, more and more people are considering cremation services over traditional burials. Despite the emotional aspect of such a process, understanding your cremation options may offer some comfort during a challenging time. This guide aims to provide an overview of the available choices simplifying a complex process into manageable details.

Understanding Cremation

Cremation refers to the process of reducing a deceased person's body to ashes through high-temperature burning. Though it's a process dating back to ancient civilisations, many people aren't familiar with it.

Benefits of Cremation

• Cost: Cremation is usually less expensive than traditional burial services.
• Flexibility: Ashes can be scattered, kept, or buried, providing more options regarding memorial services.
• Environmental Considerations: It uses less space compared to traditional burials and has less environmental impacts.

Cremation Options

There are several cremation services that you can consider.

Direct Cremation

Direct cremation does not involve any funeral or memorial services before the body is cremated. It's the least costly option as it eliminates the expenses associated with a funeral service.

Cremation with Memorial Service

Families may choose to hold a memorial service after the body has been cremated. The ashes can either be present in an urn or scattered as per the family's wishes.

Cremation with Funeral Service

In this case, the body is primarily embalmed and placed in a rental casket for a funeral before cremation.

Green Cremation

Green cremation, also known as bio-cremation, uses water instead of fire to break down the body. It's the most eco-friendly type of cremation service available.

Cremation Options Example:

Consider the instance of Smith family. They recently lost their beloved grandmother. Granny Smith had always been one who cherished the world around her and believed in giving back to the environment. In line with her guiding life principles, the family chose to go for green cremation. They were able to honour her memories and her love for nature fulfilling her wish to reduce environmental impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cremation?

Cremation is a process that uses high-temperature burning, vaporization, and oxidation to reduce dead bodies, including any coffin or casket, to basic chemical compounds in the form of ashes. These remains are typically stored in an urn, scattered, or otherwise interred.

How does the cremation process work?

The deceased is identified, and proper authorization is secured. The body is then placed in a combustion chamber where it is exposed to temperatures ranging from 1400 to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit, which reduces it to bone fragments. These are then processed into a finer ash-like consistency.

Is a casket required for cremation?

While a casket is not required for the actual cremation process, a rigid, combustible container is typically necessary to handle the body. There are cremation caskets available for this purpose, or an alternative container oftentimes made of cardboard or plywood can be used.

What can be done with the ashes after cremation?

Options for the ashes include keeping them in an urn, scattering them in a meaningful place, burying them in a cremation plot or garden, placing them in a columbarium, or incorporating them into jewelry or glass art.

Are there different types of cremation services?

Yes, there are several types of cremation services, which can range from direct cremation with no accompanying services, to cremation followed by a memorial service, or a traditional funeral service followed by cremation.

Can the family witness the cremation?

Many crematories offer the option for the family to witness the cremation. It can be part of the family's healing process, but it’s important to discuss this request with your cremation service provider ahead of time.

Is embalming required if we choose cremation?

Embalming is not typically required for cremation. However, if there is a public viewing or funeral service with the body present prior to cremation, embalming may be necessary.

How long does the cremation process take?

The process can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, depending on the size of the deceased body and the type of cremation chamber used. Additional time may be required for the ashes to cool before they can be handled.

Do I need to purchase an urn for the ashes?

It is not mandatory to purchase an urn, but you may wish to do so for aesthetic reasons or if you plan on keeping the ashes. Otherwise, the remains are usually returned in a temporary container provided by the crematory.

Can multiple cremations be performed at once?

For ethical and legal reasons, most modern crematories cremate only one body at a time. There are exceptions for close relatives or with large animals, but individual cremations are the standard procedure.

How is a body identified before cremation?

Crematories follow strict procedures to ensure the correct identification of a body. This usually involves multiple checks of the paperwork, identification tags, and often, a family member’s confirmation.

Are there environmental concerns associated with cremation?

While cremation is generally considered more environmentally friendly than traditional burial due to the lack of land usage, it does still emit pollutants and consumes energy. The process’s environmental impact can differ depending on the crematorium's technology and filtration systems.

Can personal items be cremated with the body?

In many cases, small personal items can be cremated with the body. However, items made from hazardous materials or those containing batteries cannot be cremated. It’s best to consult the cremation provider for specific policies.

What religious views are there on cremation?

Attitudes towards cremation vary among different faiths. Some religions, like Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sikhism, prefer cremation, while others, such as Islam and Orthodox Judaism, prohibit it. Many Christian denominations now allow cremation, although the Roman Catholic Church prefers burial or entombment.

What are the legal requirements for cremation?

The legal requirements include obtaining a death certificate and a cremation authorization form, usually signed by next of kin or a legal representative. Some regions may require a waiting period or additional documentation, so it’s important to consult local laws.

Is it possible to have a traditional funeral if we choose cremation?

Yes, it’s entirely possible to have a traditional funeral service before the cremation takes place. The body can be present in a rental casket, and after the service, the cremation will proceed.

How soon after death must the cremation occur?

Local laws typically dictate this timeframe, but cremation can occur as soon as 24 to 48 hours after death, provided all necessary authorizations and paperwork are complete. However, in some jurisdictions, there may be mandated waiting periods.

Can we scatter the ashes anywhere we want?

You should always check local laws and regulations regarding ash scattering, as there may be restrictions in place. For scattering on private land, it’s best to obtain the landowner’s permission.

How much does cremation cost?

The cost of cremation can vary greatly depending on location, type of service, and whether additional services, such as a memorial or viewing, are elected. Direct cremations are usually more cost-effective than those with accompanying services.

What is a columbarium?

A columbarium is a structure designed for the storage of urns holding cremated remains. It can be an enclosed or outdoor space with niches where families can place urns as a permanent memorial.

Can cremation be pre-arranged?

Yes, cremation services can be pre-arranged. This involves planning all aspects of cremation and the associated services beforehand, which can alleviate the burden on loved ones during a time of grief and ensure that the deceased’s wishes are honored.

Does a cremated body have to be transported in a certain type of vehicle?

There are no specific requirements for the type of vehicle used to transport a cremated body. However, the vehicle should be suitable for transport and respect the dignity of the remains.

What happens if I move away and had already pre-arranged cremation services?

Should you move, it's important to notify your cremation service provider. Depending on the terms of your pre-arranged plan, you might be able to transfer the service to a provider in your new area, although additional costs could be incurred.

Navigating through end-of-life decisions can be challenging, but understanding your options can ease the process. Detailing your cremation wishes in advance can also be an act of love, easing the decision burden of your loved ones. Share this article with others to spread awareness about the various cremation options available. For more guidance and support during such challenging times, explore other articles and resources at Eulogy Assistant.