ABC Cremation Society

Cremation is not a final disposition of the remains, nor is it a type of funeral service. Rather, it is a process of reducing the human body to bone fragments using high heat and flame.

It depends on the weight of the individual. For an average size adult, cremation takes from two to three hours at normal operating temperature between 1,500 ºF to 2,000 ºF.

All organic bone fragments are swept into a stainless steel cooling pan. Non-consumed metal items are separated through visual inspection and magnet. The remaining bone fragments are processed in a machine to a consistent size and placed into a temporary or permanent urn selected by the family.

Cremated remains resemble coarse sand and are whitish to light gray in color. The remains of an average size adult usually weigh between four to eight pounds.

Remains are returned in a temporary container, but the provider offers a variety of affordable urns. Families may choose to provide their own container.

With the exception of minute and microscopic particles which are impossible to remove from the cremation chamber and processing machine, all cremated remains are given back to the family.

Never. Not only is it illegal to do so, but most modern cremation chambers are not of sufficient size to accommodate more than one adult.

No. The provider is not offering these services at this time.

The provider has developed rigorous operating policies and procedures to maximize quality and minimize human error. Positive identification of the deceased is assured throughout each stage of the cremation process, and only certified professionals operate the cremation equipment.

An urn is not required by law. However, an urn may be desired if there is to be a memorial service or the cremated remains are to be interred in a cemetery. If not selected, remains will be placed in a plastic bag and temporary container.

No, a casket is not required for cremation.

Absolutely not and it is against the law for a funeral home to tell you otherwise.