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Deciding on the best farewell for a loved one is a difficult task. As more people now favour cremation, making cremation plans is increasingly vital, ensuring the wishes of the departed are honoured. Our post will guide you step-by-step through the process of planning a cremation, so you can provide your loved ones with the final ceremony they deserve.
Why Choose Cremation
Cremation is an ancient practice now gaining popularity due to its perceived simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and environmental considerations. Make sure you have thoroughly discussed this option with everyone involved to ensure it is the right choice.
Cremation Preplanning
Preplanning a cremation can help ease the burden on family members once the time comes. You should consider choosing a cremation service, decide what to do with the ashes, and how to memorialize the deceased.
Choose a Cremation Service
There are various cremation services available. Direct cremation, a simple service without a ceremony, is typically the most economical option. Cremation with a service allows you to host a formal ceremony either before or after the cremation.
Decide on Ashes Disposition
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Options for ashes include keeping them at home, scattering them at a significant location, burying them in a cemetery, or placing them in a columbarium.
Memorializing the Departed
Even if you choose cremation, traditions such as hosting a eulogy can still take place. It's also common to use memorial urns or jewelry to remember the loved one.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Ensure to get written quotes from the crematorium and have a clear understanding of the services included. Also, confirm whether the urn is part of the cost and whether you’re permitted to supply your own.
Cremation Plans Example:
Recently, Julia had to plan a cremation for her father. She decided to preplan and choose direct cremation because her father had requested a simple, fuss-free departure. She also opted for a small ceremony at their local church to honour his life.
Julia decided to divide her father's ashes equally among the family and each family member placed their portion into small, personalised urns. This way, they each have a special reminder of him close at hand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cremation?
Cremation is a process in which body remains are reduced to bone fragments through high-temperature burning. These fragments are then further processed into what is commonly referred to as ashes.
How does the cremation process work?
The body is placed in a combustible container and then into a specialized furnace known as a cremation chamber or retort. Temperatures reach between 1400 to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit, efficiently reducing the body to bone fragments within a couple of hours.
What types of containers are used for cremation?
Bodies may be cremated in a simple cardboard box, a wooden or fiberboard casket, or in a rental casket. Everything must be combustible to ensure a proper cremation process.
Can a traditional funeral service be held before the cremation?
Yes, many families choose to hold a traditional viewing or funeral service before the cremation. The remains are often placed in a rental casket for the service.
What happens to the ashes after cremation?
The remains, commonly called ashes, can be kept in an urn, scattered at a special location, buried in a cemetery, or handled in various other ways according to personal or religious preferences.
Is embalming required for cremation?
Embalming is generally not required for cremation, unless there will be a public viewing or funeral service prior to the cremation process.
Are cremation urns necessary?
While not legally required, urns provide a respectful way to house the ashes and offer a wide range of options for memorialization. Ashes can also be placed in multiple keepsakes for distribution amongst relatives.
Can family members witness the cremation?
Many crematories allow family members to be present during the initiation of the cremation process. This is often called a witness cremation and should be arranged with the crematory beforehand.
How soon after death can a cremation take place?
Usually, a waiting period of 24 to 48 hours is required in most states before the cremation can legally proceed. This allows time for necessary permits and authorizations to be obtained.
Is a casket required for cremation?
A casket is not required for cremation. All that is needed is a combustible, rigid, covered container that can support the body during transport to the crematory and handle the weight during the process.
Can cremation be arranged in advance?
Pre-planning a cremation is possible and often encouraged. This allows individuals to make informed decisions and provides peace of mind knowing their wishes will be respected.
What kind of memorial services can accompany a cremation?
Cremations can be accompanied by any form of memorial service, from traditional religious ceremonies to non-traditional gatherings or celebrations of life.
Are there environmental concerns with cremation?
Some environmental concerns with cremation include the release of carbon dioxide and mercury emissions from dental amalgam. Newer technology and crematory practices are mitigating these effects, and green cremation methods are becoming more available.
Can personal items be cremated with the body?
Generally, personal effects can be cremated with the body, but this varies by facility and local laws. Items that might be hazardous during the cremation process are usually not allowed.
How does one choose the right urn?
Choosing the right urn depends on personal preferences regarding material, design, and price. It also depends on what will be done with the ashes; for instance, an urn meant for display may be different from one used for scattering.
Does religion affect cremation decisions?
Religious beliefs can significantly impact decisions around cremation. Some religions embrace it, while others may discourage or prohibit the practice. It is essential to consult with religious leaders or within the faith community when making these decisions.
What is direct cremation?
Direct cremation refers to a simple cremation without any pre-funeral services. It is usually the most cost-effective option as it involves only the basic services of the crematory and staff.
How can I ensure that the ashes I receive are of my loved one?
Crematories follow strict protocols and chain-of-custody procedures to ensure that the ashes returned to the family belong to their loved one. Identification tags and certificates are components of this process.
Can multiple cremations be performed at once?
Laws and regulations typically prohibit crematories from conducting more than one cremation at a time within the same chamber. This ensures the integrity and individuality of the remains.
What legal documents are needed for cremation?
The required documents usually include a death certificate, authorization forms signed by next of kin, and any permits required by local and state laws.
How much does cremation cost?
The cost of cremation can vary widely based on location, the crematory service chosen, the type of container used, and additional services such as memorials or visitations. Direct cremation is generally the least expensive option.
Can cremated remains be transported?
Yes, cremated remains can be transported by ground or air. However, when flying, specific airline policies and TSA regulations must be followed. It may also be prudent to carry a copy of the death certificate and cremation authorization when traveling with the ashes.
Taking time to understand and properly plan a cremation can give you substantial peace of mind. Our aim at Eulogy Assistant is to make this process easier for you. Explore our other guides, articles for more helpful resources and insights into making this important journey as smooth as possible. If you've found this guide helpful, kindly share it with others who may need it.