It's appealing because it's simple, affordable, and ecologically sensitive. In addition, cremation provides you with a greater variety of choices.

Ask about the qualifications of the entire staff and about any hidden costs. Ask about the ownership of the crematory. Also, ask about the procedures in place for ensuring correct identification. Click on the button to the right titled "About National Cremation^®" to learn more about our qualifications.

Most religions permit you to choose cremation, including the Catholic Church. Some religions actually prefer cremation. If you have any questions, please consult your religious advisor.

First, all of the necessary forms must be completed including the "Cremation Authorization". During this document-processing period, the deceased will be sheltered in a climate-controlled environment. Today, many states require the coroner or medical examiner to authorize each cremation. In fact, some states have specific minimum time limits that must elapse before the cremation. We can assure you that all state and county rules and regulations will be followed accordingly.

No. However, the deceased is cremated in a combustible, rigid, covered container to allow for dignified handling.

No. If the body is going to be transported by air or rail, embalming may be necessary. Also, if you select a service with a public viewing or a private family viewing with an open casket, then embalming could be required.

Any special mementos, such as jewelry, will be destroyed during the cremation process.; Anything you wish to keep should be removed before the deceased is transferred into our care. Other metals, such as prostheses, are removed after the cremation is complete and discarded in an irrecoverable manner. It is essential that pacemakers and other medical devices be removed prior to cremation. It's also important to notify your provider as the device may rupture when subjected to high temperature, which can be hazardous to crematory staff and equipment.

The container holding the body is placed in the cremation chamber, where the temperature is raised to approximately 1600 to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit. After approximately 2 to 2 ½ hours, all organic matter is consumed by heat or evaporation. The residue remaining is bone fragments (more commonly referred to as ashes), which are then carefully removed from the cremation chamber. Any ferrous metal is separated by a magnet and later disposed of in an irrecoverable manner. The ashes are then processed into fine particles and placed in the temporary container provided by the crematory.

National Cremation has a carefully controlled labeling system to ensure correct identification throughout the cremation process. When a member of our staff arrives to bring the person into our care, an initial identification band is attached around the ankle of the deceased. Included on the band are the deceased's name, the location name, and any additional information required by state law. A second identification band is also attached upon completion of vital information and cremation authorization. Then a numbered metal disc is assigned and placed with the body. The metal disc will accompany the body throughout the cremation process and stay with the ashes as they are placed in the temporary container.

Yes, it is possible to witness the placement of the cremation container into the crematory.  We must be informed in advance so that a mutually convenient time can be arranged.

Yes, but there are restrictions and dollar limits that apply to individual circumstances. Your National Cremation representative can help you with more information.

A memorial service is really a "celebration of life" and it can take place with or without the ashes present. At National Cremation, we believe wholeheartedly that every life should be celebrated. Our Planning & Discussion Guide offers helpful suggestions on personalizing a remembrance that is right for you.

 

For a FREE copy of this guide, please click here.

Yes, for some it can be significant because it provides a focal point for remembering. Many choose to have their ashes placed in a cemetery or in a cremation garden for this very reason.

It really depends on the cemetery's policy and applicable state law. You may be able to have the ashes buried on top of the casket of your spouse or utilize the space provided next to him/her. Some cemeteries allow for multiple containers of ashes to be interred in a single grave space for an additional charge.

Yes. All states allow for the scattering of ashes. However, state laws do prohibit scattering on private property without the consent of the property owner. Many national and state parks have permit requirements for scattering and limit scattering options, so be sure to obtain permission in advance.  In some instances, specific areas are recommended for their scenic and memorable settings.

 

For those who choose scattering at sea, the U.S. government grants general permission to "bury" ashes in or on ocean waters no closer than three miles from land. However, reporting of the scattering to the Regional Administration and other conditions do apply.

If you wish to leave it up to your family, some may choose to divide the ashes; scattering some and burying the rest, or giving small amounts to various family members, or scattering portions in several different locations, thus allowing all family members to participate.

Most family members and friends want to do the right thing. You can help tremendously by prearranging. This includes writing down your wishes and providing copies of them to family and your closest friends. The "Cremation: That's my wish, here's how much I care" section of the Planning & Discussion Guide can be helpful in this respect. It's also important to have a "Will" or "durable power of attorney for health care" stating your wishes and naming an "agent". Check with a professional who knows the laws in your state.

That'sfine, your prearrangements will move with you. National Cremation has a growing network of offices to serve your needs. This transferability benefit is included in our cremation plan. If for any reason we can't perform our service, your money is safe and your designated beneficiary will receive it. There is no additional charge for this benefit.

When the death occurs, your family simply calls National Cremation^® at the number on the enclosed benefit card, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We'll take it from there. A representative will gather some information, including the deceased's date and place of birth, Social Security number for the legal documents, place and county of death, etc. We'll then arrange the necessary paperwork and make preparations to transfer the deceased into our care. Typically, our representatives arrive in a plain vehicle. The body is taken to our nearest facility where it is cared for in a climate-controlled sheltering environment until the cremation takes place. Once the cremation is complete, the ashes will be placed in a temporary container and we'll contact your family or legal representative. The container holding the ashes will be given to an authorized individual only.