How a Body is Prepared for Cremation

One of the first things most people learn about cremation is the zero need for embalming, a crucial part of preparing the body in traditional burials. But if there is no embalming, how then do cremation services in Portland, ME, prepare a body for a cremation? 

The exact process depends on two main factors: 

• Will there be a viewing? If so, is it private or public? 
  
• Is it a direct cremation? 

Here is how it works in either scenario. 

Confirmation of identity 

A coroner or medical examiner must first identify the body to determine the cause and manner of death, assuming they did not die in a hospital. 

This will also include other bureaucratic steps such as recording the time of death, informing the family, and issuing a medical certificate of death. 

Once the examiner has cleared the body for removal, the deceased goes to the funeral home or crematory. 

Here, the body caretakers follow a series of tagging procedures that ensure the right person is cremated and the correct ashes will be returned to you. 

This process includes a fire-resistant metal tag attached to the body inside the chamber. 

Embalming (might) take place 

An embalming procedure will occur if the deceased or you have requested a public viewing. 

This body preparation includes draining the deceased’s bodily fluids and replacing them with preserving chemicals. 

Depending on your arrangement with the funeral home, they might also dress the body. 

If it is a direct cremation or a private viewing, a family member can wash and clothe the body. The dress can be their favorite outfit or a casual dress like a religious robe or nightgown. 

Alternatively, you can give the clothing to the crematorium to dress them for you before the cremation. 

Removal of jewelry and pacemaker 

Before the body goes into the cremation chamber, the funeral director or cremation professional removes all jewelry and returns it to the family. 

Also, they will remove any pacemakers or ICDs (implantable cardioverter-defibrillator) if the deceased has any. It prevents explosions during cremation and protects personal effects from damage. 

In a direct cremation where embalming is unnecessary, this process occurs immediately after the professionals have completed identity checks. 

Once all the necessary objects have been removed, the body is placed in a suitable cremation container. 

This could either be a cremation casket made of solid wood or an alternative container made out of a corrugated cardboard box. 

Cremation begins 

Once the body is in the chamber, the process should take about 2 hours. If you wish to witness the cremation, you have to arrange it beforehand. This is only available to a few close family members. 

After 2-3 hours and the ashes are cooled, the operator will check for any remaining metal and remove them with a high-powered magnet. 

Next, a processor grinds the remains into fine powder before transferring it to a container of your choice. 

Hopefully, this answers your question on how a body is prepared for cremation. For additional questions or if you are considering cremation services in Portland, ME, please reach out to us. We are here to help you carry out your loved one’s final wishes. Call us or visit our location today.