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What is Cremation?
Cremation is the process of reducing a deceased body to its basic elements through the use of intense heat. It is an alternative to traditional burial and is performed in a specialized facility called a crematorium. During cremation, the body is placed in a container or casket and exposed to temperatures between 1,400 and 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. This high heat breaks down the organic matter, leaving behind dry bone fragments, known as cremated remains or ashes.
The Cremation Process Step by Step
Step 1: Preparation - The body is prepared for cremation by removing any medical devices or implants that could be potentially hazardous. - Jewelry and personal items are also removed. Step 2: Identification - The body is labeled with an identification tag that stays with it throughout the entire cremation process. Step 3: Placement - The body is placed in a cremation container or casket that is combustible and suitable for cremation. Step 4: Incineration - The container with the body is placed in a cremation chamber, also known as a retort. - The chamber is heated to a high temperature, typically between 1,400 and 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. - The intense heat begins the process of cremation, breaking down the body into bone fragments. Step 5: Cooling - After the cremation process, the bone fragments are allowed to cool before further processing. Step 6: Processing - The cooled bone fragments are processed to reduce them to a fine, consistent texture, similar to sand. - Any metal objects, such as surgical pins or metal dental work, are removed from the bone fragments. Step 7: Cremated Remains - The processed bone fragments, now known as cremated remains or ashes, are placed in a temporary container. - The ashes can then be transferred to an urn or other permanent container chosen by the family. - Families can choose to scatter the ashes in a meaningful location or keep them in a memorial at home. Step 8: Final Documentation - The crematory will provide the family with a certificate of cremation, documenting the date and location of the cremation.
Surprising Facts About Cremation
Fact 1: Cremation has been practiced for thousands of years, with evidence of cremation dating back to ancient civilizations. Fact 2: Cremation can be more environmentally friendly than traditional burial, as it does not require land for burial plots. Fact 3: The ashes from cremation are not actually ashes, but rather bone fragments that have been processed. Fact 4: Cremated remains can be used to create beautiful pieces of memorial jewelry or artwork. Fact 5: Some cultures have specific rituals and traditions associated with cremation, such as scattering the ashes in a sacred river or on a mountain peak. Fact 6: Cremation does not preclude having a funeral or memorial service; many families choose to have a service before or after the cremation process. Fact 7: Cremation is generally less expensive than traditional burial, as it eliminates the need for a casket, burial plot, and other related costs.