Frequently Asked Questions About Cremation

by The Cremation
Association of North America

How is a cremation service different from a traditional funeral service?

Is a casket required for cremation?

Most crematories associated with CANA require that the body at least be enclosed and in an acceptably rigid container. This container or casket must be strong enough to assure the
protection of the health and safety of the funeral director and crematory operator.

How is cremation accomplished?

The enclosed body is placed in the cremation chamber, where through heat and evaporation it is reduced to its basic elements, which are referred to as cremated remains. It may surprise many to learn that ashes are not the final result, since cremated remains have neither the appearance nor the chemical properties of ashes--they are, in fact, bone fragments. After
preparation, these elements are either placed in a permanent urn or in a temporary container that is suitable for transport.

Isn't cremation an end in itself?

Some people may regard it as such, but most families feel that the cremated remains of someone they love should be afforded a resting place that can be identified by the name and dates. This is memorialization. Most families find that a memorial, regardless of size, serves a basic human need to remember and be remembered.

What choices for memorialization are available with cremation?

A final resting place for cremated remains can be provided by various means. The family may choose from a full selection of urns
for permanent containment of the cremated remains. The urns may be placed in a columbarium, which is a building or structure where single niche space or family units may be selected. Niches are recessed compartments enclosed by either glass protecting the engraved urn or ornamental fronts upon which the name and dates are featured.

Of course, family lots may be used, and cemeteries often permit the interment of more than one person in an adult space if cremation has occurred. In many cemeteries, there are also areas specifically designed for this purpose,
which are called urn gardens.

What about scattering cremated remains (cremains)?

This may be legally done in most areas, but CANA
members believe that in consideration of the descendants of the departed that some form of memorialization should be provided. Furthermore, there are reasons for not scattering, because it is for many a very traumatic experience. It can be soul-shaking to spill out all that is mortal of someone you have known and loved. One should realize how much is being asked of the person who is to do the scattering.

How does the cost of cremation differ from burial or entombment?

The basic charge for just cremation is somewhat less than traditional burial. However, with so many items of service available to the family both in the funeral service before and in the mode of disposition after, it is not possible to make an accurate comparison. Again, the family has the option to select as much or as little as they choose.

Is embalming necessary with cremation?

Are more people choosing cremation today?

Yes, more people are choosing cremation today. The subject should certainly be resolved among family members since that determination will have to be made at the time of death. The family may want to visit the funeral home to learn what's offered in the way of services and memorial property.