Cremation in Manhattan Beach, California

Manhattan Beach, California, is a beautiful coastal city in Los Angeles County, known for its stunning beaches, outdoor recreational activities, and strong sense of community. When it comes to end-of-life care, residents of Manhattan Beach have several options for cremation services. In this article, we will provide an in-depth guide to cremation in Manhattan Beach, covering the benefits, costs, regulations, and more.

Benefits of Cremation in Manhattan Beach

Cremation is becoming an increasingly popular choice for families in Manhattan Beach, and for good reason. Here are some of the benefits of cremation:

Environmental concerns: Cremation is a more eco-friendly option compared to traditional burial, as it doesn't require the use of land, embalming fluids, or caskets.

Cost-effective: Cremation is generally less expensive than traditional burial, with costs ranging from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on the services chosen.

Flexibility: Cremation provides families with more flexibility in terms of memorialization options, such as scattering ashes at sea, in a special location, or keeping them in an urn.

Types of Cremation Services in Manhattan Beach

There are several types of cremation services available in Manhattan Beach, each with its own unique characteristics:

Traditional cremation: This type of cremation involves a funeral service, followed by cremation, and then a memorial service or burial.

Direct cremation: This is the most basic and cost-effective option, which involves cremation without a funeral service or viewing.

Green cremation: This eco-friendly option uses a biodegradable casket and avoids the use of embalming fluids.

Home funeral: This type of cremation involves caring for the deceased at home, with the help of a home funeral guide or funeral director.

Cremation Costs in Manhattan Beach

The cost of cremation in Manhattan Beach can vary depending on the services chosen and the provider. Here are some estimated costs:

Direct cremation: $1,000 to $2,000

Traditional cremation: $2,000 to $4,000

Green cremation: $2,500 to $5,000

Home funeral: $3,000 to $6,000

Cremation Regulations in Manhattan Beach

In California, cremation is regulated by the California Cemetery and Funeral Bureau. Here are some key regulations to be aware of:

A 48-hour waiting period is required before cremation can take place.

A cremation permit is required, which can be obtained from the Los Angeles County Health Department.

Cremated remains must be placed in an urn or container, which can be provided by the cremation provider or purchased separately.

Cremation Providers in Manhattan Beach

There are several cremation providers in Manhattan Beach, each with its own unique services and pricing. Here are a few options:

Manhattan Beach Funeral Home: Offers traditional cremation, direct cremation, and green cremation services.

Beach Cities Cremation: Provides direct cremation and traditional cremation services, with a focus on eco-friendly practices.

South Bay Cremation: Offers a range of cremation services, including direct cremation, traditional cremation, and home funeral services.

Planning a Cremation Service in Manhattan Beach

Planning a cremation service in Manhattan Beach can be a daunting task, but with some guidance, it can be a meaningful and personalized experience. Here are some steps to follow:

Choose a cremation provider: Research and select a cremation provider that meets your needs and budget.

Select a cremation package: Choose a cremation package that includes the services you want, such as a funeral service, memorial service, or direct cremation.

Plan a memorial service: Consider planning a memorial service or celebration of life to honor your loved one.

Cremation and Memorialization Options in Manhattan Beach

After cremation, families in Manhattan Beach have several options for memorialization:

Scattering ashes: Scatter ashes at sea, in a special location, or in a designated scattering garden.

Urn burial: Bury the urn in a cemetery or memorial garden.

Home display: Keep the urn in a special place at home, such as a mantle or shelf.

Tree planting: Plant a tree in memory of your loved one, with the ashes buried beneath.

Cremation in Manhattan Beach, California, offers families a range of options for end-of-life care. By understanding the benefits, costs, regulations, and providers, families can make informed decisions that honor their loved ones. Whether you choose traditional cremation, direct cremation, or green cremation, there are many ways to personalize the experience and create a meaningful memorialization.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cremation?

Cremation is a process of final disposition of a deceased person's body, where the body is reduced to its basic elements through high-temperature burning. The resulting remains are then processed into a fine powder, known as cremated remains or ashes, which can be placed in an urn or scattered in a special location.

How does the cremation process work?

The cremation process typically involves several steps. First, the body is prepared by removing any medical devices, pacemakers, or other implants that could explode during the cremation process. The body is then placed in a cremation container, which is designed to withstand the high temperatures of the cremation chamber. The container is then placed in the cremation chamber, where it is exposed to temperatures of up to 1800°F (980°C) for a period of 1-2 hours. After the cremation process is complete, the remains are processed into a fine powder and placed in an urn.

What are the benefits of cremation?

Cremation offers several benefits, including cost savings, environmental benefits, and flexibility in terms of memorialization options. Cremation is generally less expensive than traditional burial, and it also reduces the amount of land used for cemeteries. Additionally, cremation allows for a wider range of memorialization options, such as scattering the ashes in a special location or dividing them among family members.

What are the different types of cremation?

There are several types of cremation, including traditional cremation, direct cremation, and alkaline hydrolysis. Traditional cremation involves a funeral service and viewing of the body before cremation, while direct cremation skips these steps and goes straight to the cremation process. Alkaline hydrolysis, also known as water cremation, uses a chemical solution to break down the body instead of heat.

Can I still have a funeral service if I choose cremation?

Yes, you can still have a funeral service even if you choose cremation. In fact, many people choose to have a funeral service or memorial service to honor their loved one before or after the cremation process. This can include a viewing of the body, a eulogy, and other elements of a traditional funeral service.

What happens to the ashes after cremation?

After cremation, the ashes are processed into a fine powder and placed in an urn. The urn can then be buried, placed in a columbarium, or kept at home. Some people also choose to scatter the ashes in a special location, such as a favorite park or beach.

How do I know I'm getting the right ashes back?

Crematories have strict procedures in place to ensure that the right ashes are returned to the family. This includes using identification tags on the body and the urn, as well as documenting every step of the cremation process.

Can I witness the cremation process?

Some crematories offer the option to witness the cremation process, but this is not always possible or recommended. Witnessing the cremation process can be a intense and emotional experience, and it may not be suitable for everyone.

How long does the cremation process take?

The cremation process typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on the size and weight of the body. However, the entire process from preparation to return of the ashes can take several days.

Can I pre-plan my cremation?

Yes, you can pre-plan your cremation by making arrangements with a funeral home or crematory in advance. This can help ensure that your wishes are respected and can also help reduce the financial burden on your loved ones.

Can I change my mind about cremation after the process has started?

Once the cremation process has started, it cannot be reversed. Therefore, it's essential to be certain about your decision to choose cremation before the process begins.

Is cremation against any religious beliefs?

Cremation is not against any religious beliefs, although some religions may have specific guidelines or restrictions around the practice. For example, some Orthodox Jewish and Muslim traditions prohibit cremation, while others, such as Hinduism and Buddhism, encourage it.

Can I still have a traditional burial if I'm cremated?

Yes, you can still have a traditional burial even if you're cremated. This is known as a "green burial," where the ashes are buried in a biodegradable container without the use of embalming fluids or a traditional coffin.

How do I choose a crematory?

When choosing a crematory, look for one that is licensed and certified by a reputable organization, such as the International Association of Cremation Authorities. You should also research the crematory's policies and procedures, as well as read reviews from other families who have used their services.

Can I transport the ashes across state or national borders?

Yes, you can transport the ashes across state or national borders, but there may be specific regulations and requirements that apply. For example, you may need to obtain a permit or use a specialized container to transport the ashes.

How do I scatter the ashes?

Scattering the ashes can be a meaningful way to honor your loved one. You can scatter the ashes in a special location, such as a park, beach, or mountain, or use a scattering garden or urn designed specifically for this purpose.

What are the environmental implications of cremation?

Cremation has a lower environmental impact than traditional burial, as it reduces the amount of land used for cemeteries and eliminates the need for embalming fluids. However, cremation does release carbon dioxide and other pollutants into the atmosphere.

Can I divide the ashes among family members?

Yes, you can divide the ashes among family members, but this should be done with care and respect. It's essential to use a specialized container or urn designed for dividing the ashes, and to follow any local regulations or guidelines.

How do I know if cremation is right for me?

Cremation may be right for you if you're looking for a more affordable and environmentally friendly option, or if you want to have more flexibility in terms of memorialization options. Ultimately, the decision to choose cremation should be based on your personal preferences and values.

What are the costs associated with cremation?

The costs associated with cremation vary depending on the type of cremation you choose and the services you require. On average, cremation can cost between $1,000 and $3,000, although this can vary significantly depending on your location and the funeral home or crematory you choose.

Can I still have a headstone or marker if I'm cremated?

Yes, you can still have a headstone or marker even if you're cremated. This can be placed in a cemetery, columbarium, or other location, and can serve as a lasting tribute to your loved one.

What are the laws and regulations around cremation?

The laws and regulations around cremation vary by state and country, but generally require that the cremation process be performed by a licensed and certified crematory. Additionally, there may be specific regulations around the handling and disposal of cremated remains.