When a loved one dies, the family must often make many difficult decisions. One of those decisions is what to do with the body. Cremation is a common choice, but it is important to understand what to expect during the process. While the process of creating the body can take anywhere from three to four hours, the entire cremation timeframe can stretch much longer, sometimes resulting in up to two weeks of total waiting time.
What Affects the Cremation Process?
The Cremation Schedule Only Starts After You File a Death Certificate
The cremation process does not start automatically when a person dies. The cremation schedule only begins after a death certificate is filed with the appropriate government agency. This document officially records the death of an individual and authorizes the cremation process to begin.
Different Waiting Periods Depending on the State
Different waiting eriods are required before cremation can take place, depending on the state. In some states, there is a mandatory waiting period of 24 hours after death before cremation can take place. In other states, the waiting period is 48 hours or ven longer. During this time, the body is typically refrigerated to preserve it.
What are Different Types of Cremation?
1. Direct Cremation
Direct cremation is the process of cremating a body without any type of funeral service or ceremony. This option is typically chosen by people who want to avoid the cost and hassle of a traditional funeral service. Direct cremation also allows families to spread the ashes of their loved ones in a location that they choose, without having to go through any additional steps.
There are several different ways to arrange for direct cremation. Some funeral homes offer package deals that include all of the necessary services and supplies, while others allow you to take care of everything yourself. In either case, it’s important to make sure that you understand what is included in the price and what will be expected of you.
It’s also important to note that not all crematories offer direct cremation services. Be sure to ask your local provider if they can accommodate this type of arrangement before making any final decisions.
2. Liquid Cremation
Liquid cremation is a relatively new process that is gaining in popularity. It involves the dissolving of the body in a heated chemical bath. The body is completely dissolved, leaving no physical remains. This process is often chosen by those who want to avoid traditional burial or cremation. It is also seen as a more environmentally friendly option, as there are no emissions from the burning of bodies and no need for large burial plots.
3. Green Cremation
Alkaline hydrolysis is a process that breaks down organic matter using a high pH solution. This process is often used as an alternative to burial, as it is considered more environmentally friendly. Once the organic matter has been broken down, the resulting solution can be recycled back into the wastewater treatment system. This makes alkaline hydrolysis a popular choice for those who are looking for a more sustainable option.
The Bottom Line: Don’t Hesitate to Ask About Your Loved One’s Cremation Process
When a loved one dies, it can be difficult to know what to do next. One of the most important decisions you will make is how to handle your loved one’s cremation. It’s important to ask questions and understand the process before making a decision.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you don’t understand something. The funeral home staff should be happy to answer your questions and help you through this difficult time.
The Bottom Line: Exploring the Cost-Saving Benefits of Cremation and How It can still Be an Intimate Way to Say Goodbye
If you’re looking for the ideal funeral home in Jacksonville, FL, to send off your special loved one, Evergreen JAX offers affordable cremation services that strive to take the drudgery from an otherwise emotional experience.
We can assist you in the pre-planning arrangements and provide a wide array of funeral homes – from private mausoleums, to monuments, and even a cremation garden. Get in touch with us today at (904) 353-3649 to see what we can do to honor your loved one.
