Q: What is Cremation?
A: Cremation is the process of reducing human remains to its basic elements in the form of bone fragments through flame, heat and vaporization (usually 1400 – 1800 degrees Fahrenheit for two hours or more). Cremation occurs in a special kind of furnace called a cremation chamber or retort. The resulting bone fragments are further reduced in size through a mechanical process and are referred to as “cremated remains”. It may surprise many to learn that ashes are not the final result since cremated remains have neither the appearance nor the chemical properties of ashes. After processing, the cremated remains are placed in an urn or other container suitable for memorialization, transport, or interment. Depending upon the size of the deceased’s skeletal makeup, there are normally four to eight pounds of cremated remains.
Q: What should I do when a death occurs?
A: The Cremation Center of Southern Utah should be notified at the time of death. We are available 24-hours a day, 365-days-a-year, and will help you determine if the police or medical examiner should become involved. Our staff will respond to the location of passing and receive the loved one into our professional care. We will answer your questions and address your concerns.
Q: Does the Cremation Center of Southern Utah have their crematory on site?
A: Yes. We have on-site the most modern and technically advanced cremation equipment available. Your loved one is always under our professional care. We are the only cremation center in southern Utah. We are locally owned and operated by licensed funeral professionals with years of experience.
Q: May I inspect the facilities and as well as the crematory?
A: Absolutely. We offer a unique open door policy. You may visit our facility and take a private tour. We believe everyone should have the guarantee that cremation is performed in a proper and respectful manner.
Q: Can family members witness the cremation?
A: Yes. We allow family members the opportunity to witness the cremation. As part of our open door policy, we believe you have the right to be involved in the cremation process if you so choose. Ours is the only facility in the area that provides a comfortable witnessing room. Our goal is to provide you with peace of mind and respect your chosen level of involvement.
Q: Can I still choose to hold a visitation or a funeral service along with cremation?
A: Absolutely. There are many options associated with cremation. Cremation does not prevent or replace any type of service. You may choose to hold a visitation, funeral service, memorial service, or a celebration of life. Simple or elaborate, traditional or contemporary, almost anything is possible. The Cremation Center is available to oversee every detail of a ceremony that will help you and your family create a meaningful and healing experience for all those involved.
Q: Are there certain religions that do not approve of cremation?
A: Most major religions readily accept cremation, with the exception of Islam and Orthodox Judaism. Today, all of the Christian denominations allow cremation. The Catholic Church approves of cremation but advocates the interment of the cremated remains in a cemetery. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints does not discourage cremation and leaves the decision up to the individual.
Q: How can I be assured that I receive the correct remains?
A: We utilize identification and tracking systems throughout the entire cremation process to insure the highest standard of accuracy. This step-by-step tracking system incorporates a uniquely numbered stainless steel identification medallion that remains with the body and the cremated remains throughout the entire process. The medallion is retained with the remains and placed in an urn.
Q: Are cremations performed individually?
A: Yes. It is unethical to cremate more than one decedent at a time, and state law enforces this rule. Also, due to the design of the cremation chamber, it is virtually impossible to cremate more than one body at a time.
Q: What should I do with the cremated remains?
A: There are several options:
Burial – Cremated remains may be interred in a cemetery. This is the most common choice for disposition – about sixty (60) percent nationwide. This option provides a permanent resting place for family and future generations to visit as often as they wish. A permanent marker or plaque may be inscribed with personal information.
Other options include: Keeping the remains at home in an urn, scattering the remains, dividing the remains among several friends or family members, or choosing a unique option, such as incorporating the remains into fireworks, artwork, or a coral reef.
Q: Is embalming required with cremation?
A: No. Unless the decedent is to be prepared for a visitation or service, the body does not have to be embalmed.
Still have questions regarding cremation? Give me a call at 435-680-5073 or contact me via
email.
-Mark Heiner
Prearrangement Consultant
Cremation Center of Southern Utah
