Frequently Asked Cremation Questions

What is Cremation?
Cremation is the irreversible process of reducing human remains to bone fragments through extreme heat and evaporation.

What Are Cremated Remains?
The bone fragments remaining after the cremation process. After the cremation process the bone fragments are processed and reduced to an unidentifiable consistency.

Is it necessary to have a Funeral Director?
Yes, a licensed Funeral Director is required to assist the family in making arrangements for cremation.  Funeral Directors must acquired necessary paperwork, i.e. cremation permit, filing the death certificate and scheduling the cremation.  The body must be prepared for cremation and also transported to the crematory by the Funeral Director.

What preparations are necessary before cremation?
It is not necessary to embalm a deceased.  Embalming may be necessary if arrangements are delayed or if the body is to be displayed for visitation.

Is a Casket Required For Cremation?
No.  New York State requires at least a rigid, leakproof, combustible box. Containers can vary from simple cardboard containers to hardwood caskets.  The cremation container will be destroyed during the cremation process.

Is It Necessary to Remove Pacemakers or Any Other Battery Powered Devices?
Yes.  The Funeral Director is required to remove such devices prior to arrival at the crematory.  These devices are removed because they may explode during the cremation process, causing damage to both the crematory operator and the cremation chamber.

What Type of Container Will The Cremated Remains Be Placed In?
The cremated remains will be placed in a temporary plastic container designed to hold human cremated remains.

Is it Necessary to Remove the Body From The Container/Casket Prior to Cremation?
No, the container/casket and anything that has been placed in it are placed in the chamber and cremated together.

Is my Family able to Witness the Cremation?

Yes, families are able to witness the casket/container entering the cremation chamber.  Once the cremation has begun families are asked to leave the crematory. The cremated remains are ready for release usually within 48 hours of the cremation. This service must be scheduled 24 hours in advance.