Cremation Process Considerations

The cremation process involves breaking down the deceased body using high levels of heat in a specially designed cremation chamber. The process of cremation normally takes about two to three hours, and the remains will weigh less than 10 pounds. All cremation in the U.S. occurs individually. Any large pieces or bone are then ground into a fine powder and combined with the ashes, which are placed into either a plastic container or urn.

Cremation Options

Cremation procedure options vary based on the state, service provider, and selected services. Some cremation options include:

-The cremation may occur at a facility close to the place of death, or the deceased may be transported to a crematorium in another county or state.

-Witnessing the cremation process by immediate family members or other people who were close to the deceased.

-Cremation process photos are offered by some funeral homes and crematoriums.

-A choice of cremation containers is usually available, ranging from a simple cardboard box to a combustible hardwood casket.

-Funeral homes and crematoriums usually offer a choice of urns for purchase, or family members may provide their own suitable container for the remains.

-Following cremation, the remains may be buried, kept in an urn, or placed in a memorial site such as an ocean reef or other concrete structure.

Cremation Process in North America

The process of cremation is becoming a common choice among Americans who understand the cremation procedure is a cost-effective and reduced land use alternative to traditional burial in a gravesite. Many service providers offer family members the chance to view a cremation process video which clearly explains what happens to the body before, during, and after the cremation procedure. This can be a good way to gain an understanding of how cremation works, and to help families decide if cremation is the right choice for their needs.

When considering cremation options, people sometimes worry about receiving the actual remains of their loved one. Modern cremation practices in North America include the use of a numbered metal disc that accompanies the body throughout the process of cremation for identification purposes. This is one of the safeguards that ensures the correct remains are released to family members by the crematorium.

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