After the death of a loved one, you most likely will be experiencing many emotions. From sadness and stress to an overwhelming feeling of disbelief, these emotions can make the process of planning your loved one's final wishes a bit challenging. Fortunately, assistance is available. If you are considering cremation for your loved one, understanding the process is helpful for reducing stress. This guide will walk you through the cremation process.

Basic Planning

One of the first steps is the basic planning process, which allows you to customize your loved one's arrangements.

You will need to choose whether you would like a viewing/wake or memorial service before or after the actual cremation. Both options are suitable depending on your needs and your deceased loved one's wishes.

Also, decide whether you and other close family members would like to be present for the actual cremation. Many crematoriums offer viewing areas outside of the cremation chamber or waiting rooms in the same building.

This is also a good time to decide how you want your loved one's ashes to be stored. You can choose from a simple box if you plan to spread the ashes later or a decorative urn that you will keep at home.

Preparation of Body

After the initial planning is completed, your loved one's body will need to be prepared for cremation. Unless you are planning for a viewing/wake, embalming the body will not be necessary.

Your loved one will need to be identified properly before the body is inspected for medical devices and jewelry. These items will need to be removed before the actual cremation.

Finally, your loved one's body will be placed in a specialized container, which is usually made out of a cardboard or wood material, that resembles an actual casket.

Actual Cremation

The cremation chamber is reheated before your loved one's body is placed inside. This ensures the most efficient and effective cremation possible.

Over a period of a few hours, the heat will break down the deceased's body into ash. It is important to remember that your loved one's body will not be exposed to actual flame – the cremation chamber produces enough heat to cremate the body without actual fire.

Refinement of Remains

The remains of your loved one will be carefully removed from the cremation chamber. A specialized piece of equipment is then used to refine the ashes, turning them into more of a fine powder.

After refinement, the ashes are placed in the container of your choosing.

With its cost-effective nature and ease of planning, cremation can be a good option for your loved one. This guide will help you understand the process in more detail.

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