The Cremation Process

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 two to three hours. All cremations in the U.S. occur individually.

Cremation Options

Cremation procedures vary based on the state, service provider, and selected funeral services. Cremation options include:

  • 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.
  • Immediate family members and those close to the deceased may witness the cremation process.
  • Cremation process photos are offered by some funeral homes and crematoriums.
  • A choice of cremation containers is available, ranging from a simple cardboard box to a combustible hardwood casket.
  • Funeral homes and crematoriums offer a choice of urns for purchase. Alternatively, family members may provide their own suitable container for the remains.
  • Following cremation, remains may be buried, kept in an urn, scattered, or placed in a memorial site such as the Memorial Reef or other concrete structure.

Cremation Process in North America

The process of cremation is a common choice among Americans, preferred because 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.

Trident Society offers a free, downloadable Cremation Answer Book to answer all your cremation questions. Simply complete the request form to download your copy.

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