Cremation has gained popularity over the past few years and is the first choice for many people. If you’re planning a cremation there are many decisions to be made. Most of these decisions aren’t easy to make because of the difficult time you are going through.
There a many important matters to consider, such type of cremation (no service, no attendance or a simple service), selection of cremation provider and cost. Don’t be fooled by sponsored Google or Facebook Ads selling the cheapest cremation package. It pay’s to do your homework.
Visit eziCremations for more information on how to plan a cremation.
The Basics of Cremation
Cremation is a way of disposing of the body through incineration. It’s an alternative to burial that can serve as a funeral or post-funeral ritual. The cremated remains of the bones are in the form of ashes. To plan a successful cremation process, here are some things that should be taken into consideration.
1. Pre-Planning
There are countless decisions that are made before the death of a person. Chances are, your loved ones may have already decided if or how they want to be cremated after their death. It’s very common for many people, especially the elderly, to decide on the type of cremation they want after their death.
2. Approval Process
The cremation process cannot start without proper approvals. Before it starts the cremation provider needs to have documented approvals. In most states, a deceased person can only be cremated if a permit to cremate has been issued by a medical referee. Application for a permit to cremate generally requires the completion of prescribed forms. For example:
Application for permit to cremate
The senior next of kin or administrator of the estate are the usual people who will apply for a permit to cremate, although there are provisions for other people to apply if necessary. If the applicant is not the administrator of the deceased, then the applicant must make a statutory declaration. Information to be provided includes:
- personal details about the deceased
- instructions of the deceased
- details of the death.
Certificate of medical practitioner
The doctor who attended the deceased prior to death must complete this form. Information to be provided includes:
- illness causing death
- place and time of death
- any evidence of a non-natural death
- any implants that may make cremation unsafe.
Permit to cremate
A medical referee can issue the permit after receiving the above forms. A medical referee cannot issue a permit to cremate when he/she has signed the death certificate, as the two processes must be independent. Once the permit to cremate has been issued, the funeral director must provide this form to the crematorium. A permit to cremate is sufficient authority for the cremation of the body at a crematorium
3. Choice of Cremation Provider
While planning a cremation is important, the selection of the right cremation provider is important. There are many cremation providers out there making all sorts of claims.
Be sure to be a little investigative while talking to cremation service providers. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. The more you know about the provider and the process, the easier your choice becomes.
You want to make sure that your loved one is cared for with respect and dignity by cremation providers that you can trust.
- Where and how will they care for your loved one before cremation?
- Which crematorium will they transfer your loved one for cremation?
- Can family members attend the crematorium?
If immediate family members wish to attend the crematorium for ONE LAST GOODBYE, speak to your local funeral director to see what is possible. If they are inflexible choose another one – you are the client.
About eziFunerals
eziFunerals is a free funeral consumer advocacy and planning platform that supports individuals and families coping with end of life decisions, death and funerals. We are an independent, Australian-owned and operated company, and are not a subsidiary of any other corporation. eziFunerals supports consumers plan a funeral, compare prices and select the right funeral director anywhere, anytime.
Peter Erceg
The views and opinions expressed on posts are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of eziFunerals and members. eziFunerals may receive commissions from Preferred Partners listed on our website. While every care has been exercised and the recommendations and other statements herein are based on information believed to be accurate and reliable, no liability, (unless required by law) can be accepted for any error or omission including negligence however caused.
