Cremation is an increasingly popular choice for end-of-life arrangements, but before making the decision, it’s good to know what this is, how does the cremation process work and what happens to the ashes after cremation.
This guide delves into the essential aspects of cremation, from the process itself to what you can do with ashes afterward, while addressing common questions and concerns.
What is Cremation?
Cremation is a method of final disposition of a deceased person's body through the use of high heat. This process reduces the body to its basic elements, which are then processed into a fine, sand-like substance commonly referred to as "ashes" or "cremains."
Cremation provides an alternative to traditional burial and is often chosen for its simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and flexibility.
Historical Context
Cremation has been practiced for thousands of years, dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Greeks and Romans. In North America, cremation gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, initially as a practical and hygienic alternative to burial. Over time, it became widely accepted and is now chosen by more than half of families in many regions.
Pros and Cons of Cremating a Body
Pros of Cremation:
Cost-Effective: Cremation is often less expensive than a traditional burial, which involves embalming, a casket, and a burial plot.
Environmental Impact: While not entirely eco-friendly, cremation generally has a smaller land-use footprint than burials.
Flexibility: Cremation allows families to hold memorials at their convenience and choose unique ways to honor their loved one’s memory.
Portability: Ashes can be transported, making it easier for families to keep their loved one’s remains close.
Cons of Cremation:
Emotional Distance: Some people find cremation less personal or comforting than traditional burial rituals.
Environmental Concerns: The process releases carbon emissions and requires substantial energy.
Irreversibility: Unlike burial, cremation is final and leaves no opportunity for exhumation or further examination.
Preparing for Cremation
Preparation for cremation involves several steps to ensure a smooth process:
Choose a Provider: Research local crematoriums or funeral homes to find one that aligns with your needs and budget.
Plan Memorial Details: Decide whether you want a service before or after cremation and plan accordingly.
Select an Urn or Container: If you have specific preferences for storing ashes, purchase an urn or keepsake in advance.
Address Personal Items: Remove personal items like jewelry before cremation, as they cannot be recovered afterward.
Complete Documentation: Work with the provider to handle permits and legal requirements.
Legal Considerations
When opting for cremation, it is essential to adhere to legal requirements. In the USA and Canada, this typically involves obtaining a cremation permit and complying with local and state/provincial regulations. Additionally, consent from the next of kin is usually required.
Crematoriums often handle the documentation process, but it is advisable to confirm all details to ensure compliance. In case you would like to keep an urn at home, make sure to check if this is allowed in your country.
Costs of Cremation
The cost of cremation can vary widely based on location, services, and preferences. Basic cremation (also known as direct cremation) can cost between $500 and $2,500, depending on the region. Adding services such as a memorial, urn, or burial of ashes may increase costs. It's recommended to obtain quotes from local providers to compare prices and services.
How Does the Cremation Process Work?
The cremation process typically follows these steps:
Preparation:
The deceased is transported to a crematorium, where the body is identified and all necessary documentation is completed.
Medical devices like pacemakers are removed, as they can pose safety risks during cremation.
Placement in the Cremation Chamber:
The body is placed in a combustible container (usually made of wood or cardboard) and then into a cremation chamber, a specialized furnace that operates at temperatures between 1,400 and 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
Incineration:
The intense heat reduces the body to bone fragments over a period of 2 to 3 hours. This step may vary slightly depending on local regulations and equipment.
Processing of Remains:
After cooling, the bone fragments are collected, inspected for metal remains, and processed into a finer consistency to form cremated ashes.
Return of Ashes:
The ashes are placed in an urn or temporary container and returned to the family or designated individual.
Common Myths and Misconceptions
There are several myths surrounding cremation that can cause unnecessary concerns:
Mixing of Ashes: Crematoriums follow strict protocols to ensure that remains are kept separate, eliminating the risk of mixing ashes.
Incomplete Cremation: Modern cremation equipment ensures that the process is thorough and respectful.
Environmental Harm: While cremation has an environmental impact, it is often smaller than that of traditional burial, especially when using eco-friendly methods.
How Much Ashes Do You Get After Cremation?
The volume of ashes typically depends on the size of the deceased. On average, adults produce 3 to 9 pounds (1.3 to 4 kilograms) of cremated remains. The ashes are a combination of bone fragments and non-organic materials.
Is It OK to Touch Cremated Ashes?
Yes, cremated ashes are safe to touch. They are sterile and composed of non-hazardous materials, primarily calcium phosphate. However, as the ashes have a fine texture, you may want to handle them gently to avoid inhaling any particles.
Do Cremated Ashes Have a Smell?
Cremated ashes are generally odorless. Occasionally, there might be a faint metallic or mineral scent due to the composition of the ashes, but it is usually negligible.
Do Ashes Keep or Contain DNA?
The intense heat of the cremation process destroys nearly all organic material, including DNA. While trace amounts of genetic material may remain, they are typically insufficient for DNA testing or analysis.
Therefore one might consider keeping a DNA sample of the deceased one and store it somewhere safe (Carbon Urns, for instance, have a special compartment for storage of a DNA sample).
What to Do With the Ashes After Cremation?
After cremation, families have several options for honoring their loved one’s memory:
Urn Storage: Store the ashes in a decorative urn at home or in a columbarium. Here is an article explaining why keeping ashes at home is a good idea.
Scattering: Scatter ashes in a meaningful location, such as a favorite outdoor spot or at sea. Be sure to follow local regulations.
Burial: Bury the ashes in a cemetery plot or memorial garden.
Memorial Keepsakes: Incorporate ashes into jewelry, glass art, or other keepsakes.
Tree Planting: Use ashes in biodegradable urns designed to grow a tree as a living memorial.
Space Burial or Fireworks: For a unique tribute, some companies offer options like launching ashes into space or incorporating them into fireworks displays.
Cremation is a deeply personal choice that offers flexibility and a range of options for memorialization. By understanding the process, benefits, and possibilities, you can make informed decisions that honor your loved one’s wishes and provide comfort for your family.
If you have further questions or are considering cremation for yourself or a loved one, consult with a local funeral home or cremation service provider to explore your options.
