Q: What happens when a body is cremated?
A: After placing the coffin into the chamber, the crematoria technician raises the temperature
inside the chamber to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit. It takes around 2 hours for the organic
material to completely turn to ash. The remains are then processed. A magnet is used to sift out any metallic particles, and the remaining material is crushed into fine, uniform particles.
Q: Are mass cremations legal
A: Most state laws require cremations to be performed individually.
Some states allow family members to be cremated together after obtaining consent from the next-of-kin
Q: How soon after death can a cremation occur
A: All US states require explicit authorization from a medical examiner or coroner before human remains are released for cremation. A few states have a minimum time imposed in addition to this requirement. Check with your local funeral home for information on the specific rules in your area.
Q: Is a body embalmed before it is cremated?
A: If the family elects to hold a public viewing prior to cremation and refrigeration is unavailable,
it is probably necessary to embalm the body before cremation. Otherwise, the answer is dependent on personal preference.
Q: Are the cremated remains kept?
A: Family members are allowed to keep cremated remains. Loved one's remains are placed
into an urn of the family's choosing. They are allowed to store and display the urn however they like;
some urns are themed,
while others are designed as keepsakes for the home.
