The cremation process for humans, an alternative to traditional burial, is becoming increasingly prevalent due to numerous economic and environmental reasons. Nevertheless, despite this rise in popularity, the process remains largely enigmatic to many. In this article, we endeavor to peel back the veil on this ancient methodology, giving readers a clearer understanding of what actually transpires throughout the course of human cremation.
Table of Contents
What constitutes the Cremation Process?
Human cremation is a four-stage process that involves documentation, preparation, cremation itself and the processing of the remains.
1. Documentation:
Before cremation can occur, all required legal permits must be secured. A medical practitioner must sign and certify the cause of death, after which the immediate family or designated individual will give formal consent.
2. Preparation:
The decedent's body is prepared for cremation. Commonly, the body is cleansed and dressed in a special cremation container or casket.
3. Cremation:
Need a Eulogy?
Get a Personalized Professional Eulogy Written For Your Loved One
The body is placed into a cremation chamber, or retort. The chamber is heated to a temperature between 1400 to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit. The intense heat reduces the body to bones and gases that are then reduced to a more manageable size.
4. Processing of Remains:
The remaining bone fragments are processed into a fine, granular texture, also known as "Ashes" or "Cremains". These are often returned to the family in a temporary container unless a more permanent one is provided.
Cremation Process for Humans Example:
Take for instance the case of Mr. Smith. He had made his wishes clear, opting for cremation upon his passing. His family had to first secure a death certificate from their physician, before granting necessary permissions for the procedure to occur. Once permission was given, Mr. Smith's body was carefully prepared - dressed and placed in a cremation casket. The cremation process took approximately 2 to 3 hours. The culmination was the receiving of Mr. Smith's ashes, delivered to his family in a beautifully ornate urn they had hand selected.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cremation?
Cremation is the process of reducing a body to its basic elements through exposure to intense heat in a specially designed furnace called a crematorium or crematory. The remains, commonly known as "ashes," consist primarily of bone fragments and are further processed into a fine, granular consistency.
How long does the cremation process take?
The duration can vary, generally taking from 1 to 3 hours, depending on factors such as the size of the deceased, the type of cremation casket or container used, and the performance of the cremation equipment.
Is a casket necessary for cremation?
While a traditional casket is not required for cremation, some type of container, often a combustible casket or a simple wooden box, is generally used to respectfully handle the body and ensure safety during the cremation process.
Can families view the cremation process?
Yes, many crematories have facilities designed for ceremonial viewings, where families can witness the start of the cremation process. This service depends on the facility's policies and is not available everywhere.
What happens to jewelry during cremation?
Jewelry is typically removed before cremation to prevent damage or melting during the process. Families can choose to retain or memorialize these items in various ways.
Is embalming required before cremation?
Embalming is not required for cremation, but it may be chosen if there's a public viewing or visitation before the cremation. The decision depends on personal preferences, cultural practices, and applicable laws.
Can you have a funeral service before cremation?
Yes, it is common for families to hold a traditional funeral service before cremation. This allows for a viewing or visitation, followed by a ceremonial service before the cremation process is carried out.
What do cremated remains look like?
After the processing of the cremated remains, they typically appear as dry, coarse, grayish-white granules, similar in texture to coarse sand or small pebbles.
How are cremated remains returned to the family?
Cremated remains are usually placed in a temporary urn or container provided by the crematory, unless a specific urn is purchased or provided by the family. The remains can then be transferred to a more permanent urn, scattered, interred in a cemetery, or kept by the family.
Can more than one cremation be performed at once?
Most laws and cremation practices dictate that cremations are performed individually to maintain the integrity and identity of the remains, unless there’s an explicit request involving multiple family members and the crematory is equipped to handle such a request.
Is cremation considered environmentally friendly?
Cremation is generally seen as more environmentally friendly than burial due to the reduced land use. However, it does consume energy and emits greenhouse gases. Industry advancements, such as bio-cremation, are making the process more sustainable.
What can be done with cremated remains?
Cremated remains can be kept in an urn, scattered in a meaningful place, buried in a cemetery plot or columbarium, or incorporated into jewelry, glass art, or memorial reefs, among other options.
Are all the ashes returned to the family?
All recoverable remains are returned to the family, but some minimal residue may inevitably remain in the cremation chamber and be cleaned out only to make way for subsequent cremations.
How is the identity of the remains preserved throughout the cremation process?
Crematories use strict identification protocols, including metal identification tags and detailed records, to ensure the remains' identity is properly maintained from the time of receipt until the remains are returned to the family.
Can personal items be included in the cremation?
It is possible to include some personal items in the cremation; however, items that are combustible, toxic when burned, or could potentially damage the cremation equipment are typically restricted. It is best to check with the crematory for their specific policy.
Is a memorial service different from a funeral service?
Yes, a memorial service is distinct from a funeral service in that it does not include the body of the deceased being present. Instead, it focuses on remembering the deceased through photographs, urns, keepsakes, and shared memories. Memorial services can be held after the cremation and at any suitable time and location.
What legal documents are required for cremation?
Legal requirements typically include a death certificate, a cremation authorization form signed by the next of kin or legal representative, and, in some areas, an additional permit or health department form. The exact requirements can vary by locality.
Can cremated remains be transported?
Cremated remains can be transported by ground within most places without restrictions. However, transporting them by air often requires them to be in a container that can be scanned by airport security, along with accompanying paperwork. It is advisable to check with the airline and relevant authorities beforehand.
How does the cost of cremation compare to burial?
Cremation is typically less expensive than traditional burial due to the absence of expenses such as a burial plot, headstone, and embalming. Costs can vary based on services selected and geographic location.
Can cremation be prearranged?
Yes, many individuals choose to prearrange their cremation services to ensure their wishes are carried out and to relieve their families of the financial and planning burdens associated with end-of-life decisions.
What should happen if the deceased has a pacemaker or other medical devices?
Pacemakers and certain other medical devices must be removed prior to cremation as they can explode due to the heat and cause significant damage to the cremation chamber. Healthcare providers or funeral professionals typically handle the removal process.
Understanding the cremation process helps to demystify it. By educating ourselves about these procedures, we adequately equip ourselves to make the best decisions for ourselves and our loved ones. If you found this guide beneficial, feel free to share it with others who may be in need of such knowledge. More guides and helpful articles on similar topics are available at Eulogy Assistant.