We’re going to talk about what happens when someone passes away and the choices that come next. We’ll look at cremation, which is one way to handle things. We’ll talk about how long it takes and different ways to remember someone special.
Cremation is a process that takes about four days to two weeks from start to finish. The actual burning part, called cremation, lasts around three to four hours, and then there’s another one to two hours for getting everything ready. After cremation, it usually takes seven to ten days to return the ashes to the family.
The time for cremation depends on where you are because each place has different rules and paperwork. When someone passes away, you can call a crematorium, and they’ll take care of the body while you figure out what to do.
Before you plan a cremation, think about these things:
Death Certificate: You can only schedule cremation after the death certificate is filed. Different states have different rules for filing it, and it might take a few days. If there’s an investigation into why the person died, it could take even longer.
Waiting Periods: Some states make you stay for a bit before the cremation, while others have a specific time frame. Check your local rules because waiting periods depend on how long it takes to get the death certificate.
Cremation Authorization: Even if the deceased wanted to be cremated, the authorization of someone in charge, like the Power of Attorney, spouse, or surviving children, is required.
Planning When Cremation Happens
After the critical paperwork, like the death certificate, is all sorted out, you can decide when to do the cremation. It’s usually the family’s choice. If your family wants to say goodbye or have a special ceremony before the cremation, many places that do cremations are okay with that. Just check with them to know their rules. It’s best if the cremation happens soon after the funeral or the next day.
Keep in mind that weekends and holidays might mess up the plan. Some places that do cremations might work, but they might ask for more money. And when you’re thinking about how long it will all take, remember that most of the time counts only the days businesses are open, not the whole week.
Time taken for collecting ashes after cremation
It’s pretty simple to get the ashes after someone is cremated. The place where they do the cremation will decide a day and time to give them to you. This usually takes a bit of time, around seven to ten days. But sometimes, you might be able to get them the day after they do the cremation.
When you planned the cremation, you probably chose something to hold the ashes, like a special jar or a box. If you didn’t pick anything, they usually put the ashes in a plastic bag inside a box. They do this to keep the ashes safe in a substantial container with a lid. This could be a good option if you need clarification on dividing or spreading the ashes. You’re still trying to figure out what to do with them.
What can you do with ashes?
After someone is cremated, you have different choices on what to do with their ashes. It all depends on how you want to remember your loved one.
Here are some options:
Keep the urn at home: Some people like putting a container with the ashes in their house. This way, the family can see it when they spend time together.
Cremation jewelry: You can also keep a part of your loved one close to you by wearing unique jewelry that holds a tiny bit of their ashes.
Scatter ashes: Some people choose to spread the ashes in a meaningful place, like a beautiful park or the ocean.
Memorial forest: Another option is to plant a tree in a particular forest to remember your loved one.
How many bodies get cremated at once
At places where they do cremations, they usually only cremate one person at a time. They have strict rules to ensure the cremation area is clean before starting another one. These rules help ensure each person’s cremation is done with care and respect. It means they follow guidelines to keep everything organized and treat each person who has passed away with dignity.
How Long Does The Cremation Process Last
Cremation usually takes about two hours, but the time can vary depending on the person’s size and the kind of machine used. The process is done carefully to show respect, but the duration might change based on specific situations. Knowing how long cremation takes can help make thoughtful choices when planning for the end of life and aid in understanding how remains are treated respectfully.
End thought:
The cremation process typically spans four days to two weeks, from filing the death certificate to receiving the ashes. Factors like location, paperwork, and authorization influence the timeframe. Choosing how to memorialize a loved one, whether through an urn, jewelry, scattering ashes, or a memorial tree, is a personal decision that brings solace during challenging times.