Frequently asked cremation questions
People often have many questions regarding cremation practices and procedures. Some of the most frequently asked cremation questions are listed below:
How many people use cremation today?
The number of cremations exceeded burials for the first time, cremation has increased considerably. Current figures suggest that around 65% of all funerals are cremations.
Is cremation more expensive than burial?
No, generally the cost of a grave is much higher than the fee charged for a cremation. Although the funeral charges are similar for both services. The only additional charge for cremation arises when the death has not been referred to a coroner and two doctors need to be paid for the necessary certificates. This does not apply to burial and is country specific.
Can relatives witness the charge of the coffin?
Yes, it’s possible but you must inform us as soon as possible so that we may ensure that everything is ready for you on the day.
Is the coffin cremated with the body?
Yes, guiding principles state that the container and the body shall be placed in cremator and cremation commenced. The coffin or container with the body inside shall not be opened or otherwise disturbed, other than in exceptional circumstances, and then only with the express permission and in the presence of the applicant for cremation (usually the executor or next of kin).
How soon will the cremation take place?
Under normal circumstances the cremation is carried out shortly after the service. However when a service takes place late in the day, or there is an equipment failure, the cremation can take place the next morning. But normal is the same day that the service is preformed.
Can more than one body be cremated at a time?
No, each cremation is carried out separately. However, exceptions can be made in the case of a mother and baby or small twin children, so long as the next of kin or executor has made this specific request. But this is again country specific so ask your local executor what the legislation stated.
Are coffins sold back to the funeral director?
No, the coffin and the body inside are cremated together. There are occasions where the deceased or the family of the deceased has opted for using a cardboard coffin in which their loved one will be cremated. When this happens families often want to have a more aesthetically pleasing coffin or container on the catafalque during the service. Families therefore will opt for either a pall (a cloth covering the cardboard coffin), or a ‘cocoon coffin’ (an outer shell that covers the cardboard coffin). Neither the pall nor the cocoon is cremated. It is important to understand that the pall and cocoon do not contain the body of the deceased; they are simply superficial coverings for a cardboard coffin.
How are the ashes kept separate?
A cremator can only accept one coffin at a time and all the remains are removed from the cremator before the next cremation. An identity card in form of a fire resistant stone and is used throughout the whole cremation process until the final disposal, thereby ensuring correct identification of the deceased.
When you have more cremation questions?
When you have more specific cremation questions don’t hesitate to ask them, we are more then happy to give you a suitable answer on the matter. Just contact us and write your cremation question in the contact form.