Thinking About Cremation? 3 Things You Need To Know

The cost of funeral services is on the rise. Costs for funeral-related services increased 28.6% over a ten-year period. Cremation can be an affordable alternative to the traditional embalming and burial. More and more people are considering cremation to help reduce the financial burden left on surviving family members.

If you are considering cremation for yourself or a loved one, there are a few things you need to keep in mind when finalizing the details with a funeral home.

1. Waiting Periods

You will need to ensure that you and your family members understand your state's regulations regarding waiting periods prior to cremation. Federal law requires that there be at least a 24-hour waiting period, but states have the authority to extend this waiting period at their own discretion.

The waiting period typically begins as soon as a person is deceased. In cases where an autopsy is required to determine the cause of death, the waiting period could be extended. Check with your funeral director to determine how a waiting period could affect the planning of a memorial service.

2. Personal Effects

Anything that remains with the body when it is sent to a crematorium will be cremated along with the body. This means that any jewelry, clothing, or other items still worn by your loved one will be included with the cremains returned to the family.

Some people want to be cremated in their finest outfit or have a wedding ring accompany their remains. When making your own plans, be sure that you discuss the personal effects you want to be cremated with your body and make arrangements with a family member to collect any personal effects you want to pass on to your loved ones.

3. Medical Devices

Most people assume that the body is placed into a crematorium intact. While this is true for many individuals, those who have a medical device may need to have the device removed prior to cremation.

The batteries that are in pacemakers and other medical devices are small and packed with dense energy. These lithium ion batteries emit a highly flammable gas when exposed to extreme heat. Medical devices that explode during cremation can damage the brick walls, concrete floor, and metal door of the cremation chamber.

It's important that you disclose any and all medical devices that have been implanted prior to cremation to avoid costly fees levied by the crematorium.

For more information, contact companies like Damar  Kaminski Funeral Home & Crematorium .