Yes. This is called a “witness cremation” or simply a “cremation viewing.” Family members may watch as the body is brought into the cremation retort and the process of cremation is begun. Read on to learn more about witnessing a cremation.
Is it normal to watch a cremation?
Independent and smaller crematories are often not set up to accommodate witnesses. But larger crematoriums, often operated by funeral homes, are likely to have viewing areas for family members.
What happens when you watch a cremation?
What Is a Witness Cremation? When you witness the cremation, you will get to see your loved one for identification and to say your final goodbyes. Then you will watch, usually through a window, as the crematory operator takes the body, places it into the cremation retort, and begins the cremation process.
Is a coffin opened before cremation?
Yes. The coffin is cremated with the body and nothing can be removed from the coffin after committal.
Can you see a loved one before cremation?
The common misconception about cremation is that it is not possible to have a visitation, wake or more formal services. Visitations are not only allowed before a cremation; they are a popular and appropriate choice for many families.
Does your heart burn during cremation?
Cremation Results in Ashes The cremated remains that are returned to your family are actually bone fragments that have been processed down to resemble ashes. The cremation process does not actually burn the body and reduce it to ashes like a fire when it burns wood.
Can you view a cremation?
This practice of viewing a cremation is not common, but it is growing in popularity. Rarely do families opt to have the body placed in a casket to only be burned, but by law in most states, a cardboard box must be purchased. In rare situations, a facility may allow only a shroud to cover the person being cremated.
Where do you bury cremated remains?
Where to place cremated remains. Cremation has the benefit of providing even more options for commemorating a life than traditional burial. Some families bury cremated remains in a cemetery; others place them in a cremation niche in a mausoleum.
How do I plan a cremation service or funeral?
If you have an immediate need to plan a cremation service or funeral for a loved one, reach out to your local Dignity Memorial® provider. A professional planner or funeral celebrant can answer all of your questions about cremation and cremation funerals to help you design a one-of-a-kind service for your loved one.
What happens to jewelry when someone is cremated?
Sometimes, family might want certain items to be removed from the decedent prior to cremation. Some families choose to leave special pieces of jewelry, such as a wedding band, within the cremation container with the decedent’s ashes. Others want those items returned so they can be passed down to heirs.
