Cremation Q&A

We have put together a collection of frequently asked questions about cremation that will hopefully give you the answers to some of the most common cremation questions we get asked.  If you have a specific question you would like to have answered, please call us at 480-985-4900 or email us.

 

What Is Cremation?

Cremation is the process of reducing the human body to bone fragments using high heat and flame.  Cremation is not final disposition of the

remains, nor is it a type of funeral service.

Are there any laws governing cremation?

Yes. Under Arizona Laws for cremation, it states:

• A cremation cannot take place without the signed authorization of the Death Certificate by the attending physician of the deceased.
• The State Office of Vital Records must issue a cremation permit prior to cremation.
• An authorization for cremation must be signed and initialed by the legal next of kin.
• Human remains must be placed in a rigid, combustible container for the cremation process.

What happens during the cremation process?

Cremation takes place in a carefully maintained facility known as a crematory.  Within the crematory is a special cremation chamber. The body is placed in a cremation container or casket and is placed in the cremation chamber, where the temperature is raised to approximately 1600 degrees to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit. After approximately 2 ½ hours, all organic matter is consumed by heat or evaporation. The residue which is left is bone fragments, known as cremated remains. The cremated remains are then carefully removed from the cremation chamber. Any metal is removed with a magnet and later disposed of. The cremated remains are then processed into fine particles and are placed in a cremation container or in a cremation urn purchased by the family. Throughout the cremation process, a carefully controlled labelling system ensures correct identification.

Cremated remains may be buried, entombed, placed in a niche, scattered over private land with permission of the owner or over public property (may require permit), or remain in the family’s possession and displayed at home. Additionally, the cremated remains can be separated and placed into multiple urns, keepsakes or even jewelry specifically designed as a final resting place.

How long does it take to cremate a body?

The actual cremation process takes 2 ½ to 3 hours, depending on the size of the individual.

Is embalming required prior to cremation?
No, and it is against the law for a funeral home to tell you otherwise. The only time embalming is legally required is if the family has selected a funeral service with a public viewing with an open casket.  If the deceased is to be directly buried or cremated, embalming is not necessary.   

Is a casket required for cremation?
No, a casket is not required for cremation under Arizona State Law. All that is required is a rigid, combustible container which is cremated with the body (i.e. constructed of cardboard). The only time a casket is required is when the family chooses a public service with the body present prior to cremation. For these occasions, we offer a selection of inexpensive cremation caskets as well as our oak rental casket.

How can I be sure I’m receiving my loved one’s cremated remains back?
There are certain procedures and operating policies that our funeral home and crematory follow in order to maximize our level of service and minimize the potential for human error.  Positive identification of the deceased is assured throughout each stage of the cremation process using a carefully controlled labelling system.  A metal disk with a unique ID number accompanies the remains from the time the body is received, throughout the cremation process and is attached to cremated remains bag.

Can two cremations be performed at once?

No.  Not only is it illegal to do so, but most modern cremation chambers are not of sufficient size to accommodate more than one adult - making it impossible to conduct multiple cremations simultaneously. 

How quickly will I get cremated remains back?

Once we have a signed cremation authorization, the cremation permit has been issued, and the balance is paid in full, the cremation can begin.  The whole process generally takes between 5 and 7 business days.

Can I bring my own urn?

Yes.  We will transfer the cremated remains for you at no charge.  We do ask that you sign our disclosure if you bring in your own container.  We also have a large variety of cremation urns in our arrangement room, as well as many catalogs for you to see if you wish to purchase an urn.

Black Plastic Temporary Urn

If I don't buy an urn or bring in my own urn, what do the cremated remains come back in?

The cremated remains come back in a black plastic temporary urn. This urn can be placed in the ground for burial, used when traveling with cremated remains (can be x-rayed by TSA) or displayed to remember your loved one.

Can I witness the cremation?

Yes. This request should be discussed at the arrangement conference, so a date and time can be scheduled.  Arrangements can be made for families who wish to witness the placement of the deceased into cremation chamber.  There is an additional fee for this service.

What services are available with cremation?
Any traditional funeral service with the body present can precede the cremation. Alternatively, a memorial service can take place after the cremation has been completed.

So, if I choose to be cremated, I can still have a funeral?

Yes, cremation does not limit your ability to spend time with the body of your loved one or hold a meaningful ceremony. You may have a funeral service prior to the cremation, or your family may spend time privately with the body before cremation, followed by a memorial service with the urn present. It is completely up to you.

Here is a simple list of some of the choices from which a family may select when desiring cremation:

• You may have a visitation and viewing prior to the cremation.
• You may have a full funeral with the body present prior to the cremation.
• You may have the cremation completed first, then have a memorial service with cremated remains present.

What can be done with the cremated remains?

Cremated remains may be buried, entombed, placed in a niche, scattered over private land with permission of the owner or over public property (may require permit), or remain in the family’s possession and displayed at home. Additionally, the cremated remains can be separated and placed into multiple urns, keepsakes or even jewelry specifically designed as a final resting place.

What is a columbarium?

A columbarium, often located within a mausoleum or chapel, is a place for the public storage of cremation urns.

If I am cremated, can I be buried with my spouse even if he or she was in a casket?

That depends on the cemetery.  Most cemeteries in the local area will allow for this.  Contact your desired cemetery for their specific rules/regulations.

Are there vaults for cremated remains?

Yes.  We offer a wide variety of urn vaults to choose from.  To see our current selection of cremation vault, CLICK HERE. 

How big of an urn do I need for cremated remains?

The recommended size of an adult urn is 200 cubic inches or about the size of a one-gallon paint can.

Can I fly with cremated remains?

Passengers may transport cremated remains as part of their carry-on property or checked baggage. Some airlines do not allow cremated remains as checked baggage, so check with your airline first.  If carrying on the cremated remains, they are subject to screening and must pass through the X-ray machine. If the X-ray Operator cannot clear the remains, TSA may apply other, non-intrusive means of resolving the alarm. Under no circumstances will an officer open the container, even if the passenger requests this be done. If the officer cannot determine that the container does not contain a prohibited item, the remains will not be permitted.  It is best to use an urn made of plastic (like the one we supply for you).

Can the cremated remains be shipped?

Shipping cremated is possible through the U.S. Postal Service. See the USPS publication on How to Package and Ship Cremated Remains. Specific shipping methods and packaging is required. UPS and FedEx will not knowingly accept cremated remains for shipment. 

What is a scatter garden?

Scatter gardens are designated places where the family and friends of the deceased can scatter the cremains of their loved one.

What happens to medical implants?
Depending on the material, they are either consumed by the heat or disposed of in a proper manner.

Can I plan my cremation in advance?

Yes.  All the details, decisions and payment can be made ahead of time, when emotions are at rest.  The cremation authorization can also be signed by YOU, so your family doesn’t have to worry about whether or not they did the right thing.  For more info on pre-planning, CLICK HERE.

Was your question answered?  Do you have another question for us?  We invite you to call us any time at 480-985-4900 and we will be happy to speak with you to get you all the information you need.