Planning a funeral can be tough, especially if it’s the first time you’ve dealt with this type of situation. You likely have a lot going through your mind, but one of the first big decisions you will have to make is which type of disposition service you would prefer.
While burial is certainly an option, cremation also has its unique benefits. From start to finish, this process can take up to three days. Therefore, knowing what you can expect during each step of the cremation process at cremation services Covington, LA, can provide peace of mind and comfort throughout this difficult time.
The cremation process begins with preparing the body to be burned at high temperatures. All hair combings, jewelry, eyeglasses, dentures, and artificial body parts must be removed before the transfer of the deceased.
This can prevent complications during the cremation process. The use of embalming fluid is optional but can help prevent bacteria from entering the body and causing decomposition. The preparer will also help control any bloat or gas in the body by draining it before wrapping the body in a plastic or cotton sheet and then placing it into a simple box. The plastic sheet helps prevent fluids from spilling out of the body during transport to the crematorium.
The transfer of a body to the crematory is an essential part of the cremation process. The body is placed into a container (casket or alternative container) for transportation to the funeral facility or crematory. It is important to remember that a casket is not required for cremation.
A cardboard box will do just fine. This can be done using a hearse or ambulance. Every state requires that a death certificate be signed before cremation can take place. It is in this document that the medical examiner or funeral director will record the cause of death. The funeral director may have a certified copy of the death certificate sent to the cremation chamber ahead of time so that all parties are aware of any legal requirements and restrictions.
Final preparation and identification before the cremation process are performed by the funeral company. Before the body is cremated, funeral services may be held for the deceased, at which time family and friends can pay their respects one last time. Once this is complete, the body will be transferred to the cremation facility, where it will be identified before being placed in the cremation chamber.
Cremation is a process by which the body of a deceased person is reduced to bone fragments and ashes. The process takes place in a crematorium, which may be part of a cemetery, or a stand-alone facility. After you have said your goodbyes, we will transfer their body into our specially designed cremation chamber.
The chamber is sealed shut and placed inside of a larger retort that is heated gradually at a very specific rate over many hours until it reaches temperatures as high as 2000 degrees Fahrenheit. This intense heat releases all moisture in the body within just a few hours and leaves only an extremely light amount of ash and bone fragments weighing no more than ten pounds.
When it comes to where you want your ashes placed after the cremation process, you have a few options to consider. An urn can be buried in the ground, placed in a columbarium or niche, or scattered over a body of water.
If you plan on scattering your ashes, there are some things you should consider before placing them in an urn. In many places, it’s illegal to scatter cremated remains on land that isn’t owned by the deceased. Check with your local government before scattering any urns there. Also, ensure that the place you choose for scattering isn’t too close to any buildings or other spots where people spend their time; it’s important to respect those who may accidentally step on the scattered remains.
The most important thing to consider when choosing an urn is what kind of closure it will provide after your loved one has passed away. Some people choose to hold onto the urn and keep it on display as a final resting place for their loved ones’ ashes. Others prefer to pass along the urn so they can remember and cherish them even after they’re gone. No matter which option you choose, having an urn at home gives closure and a sense of finality.
The cremation process we described above—while not particularly glamorous to think about at the moment— it serves a vital purpose. When you decide on cremation services in Covington, LA you can rest assured that your loved one is being treated with respect and care. After all, your loved one deserves nothing less.