We know you probably have a lot of questions about the cremation process. So we’ll answer a few of them for you – without making you feel uncomfortable. Here’s what you need to know about how a cremation chamber works.
FAQs About Cremation Services
Here are the answers to FAQs about the cremation process. Keep in mind that states have specific laws and regulations for direct cremation. But, generally speaking, the cremation process is the same regardless of the provider.
What is removed from a body before cremation?
Medical devices (such as implants or pacemakers) are removed from the body before cremation. Jewelry is also removed and returned to the family.
Talk with the funeral director of the cremation center to ask specific questions about clothing. For example, some centers report that bodies are clothed when cremated. Others say that they wrap the body in a shroud made of natural fibers. Still, others only allow personal clothing items free of metallic buttons, zippers, or snaps.
What happens to a body during cremation?
A cremation chamber uses intense heat (up to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit) to convert human remains to only bone fragments through combustion and oxidation. The process takes between two to four hours.
The bone fragments that remain following the procedure are placed in a machine that reduces the fragments to a material similar to coarse sand. Although all the remains used are commonly called ashes, the more precise label is cremated remains (or cremains).
When a body is cremated, what happens to the coffin?
The coffin is destroyed in the cremation chamber.
It’s worth noting that the funeral home or cremation provider may require you to purchase a specially designed cremation casket for use in the cremation chambers. This type of casket is different than the one used in a traditional burial – as it is made to be a temporary container.
Cremation caskets typically look like a rigid cardboard container. They are made without the use of metal screws or hinges.
Do they cremate multiple bodies at once?
No, the cremation process takes place on one body at a time. So when you receive your loved one’s ashes, you receive only the cremated remains of your family member.
What religions do not allow cremation?
Regarding questions of faith, it’s always best to consult your religious texts and leaders. However, generally speaking, followers of Islam and Judaism prefer traditional burial instead of cremation.
The Catholic Church allows for cremation – but only if the cremated remains are given a permanent final resting place in a cemetery plot or columbarium niche. And most Christian churches allow cremation.
How long does the entire cremation process take to complete?
It may take a week or longer for a body to be cremated. Therefore, it’s vital that you talk with the cremation provider if you plan on having the cremated remains present in an urn during the funeral services.
It takes a relatively short time for the body to be prepared for cremation and for the actual process to be completed. However, there is a state-mandated waiting period before a body can be cremated. Additionally, proper authorization must be given by the family members.
Do You Have More Questions? Go Ahead and Ask
One of the main benefits of working with a full-service funeral home is that the funeral director and staff are always available to answer any questions about every part of the process. We are also available to help you plan a memorial or funeral service for your loved one – taking care of all the details so you can focus on your grief.
Alabama Funeral Homes and Cremation Centers has various service options available – from direct cremation to a traditional funeral with visitation. In addition, our funeral directors are available to answer any questions you have about how the cremation process works. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or arrange pre-need cremation or immediate-need services.
Cremation FAQs
- Jewelry and medical devices (such as implants or pacemakers) are removed from the body before the cremation occurs.
- A cremation chamber uses intense heat to convert human remains to bone fragments through combustion and oxidation.
- The coffin is destroyed in the cremation chamber.
- Followers of Islam and Judaism prefer traditional burial instead of cremation.
- Only one body is cremated at a time.
