Cremation Services Flashcards

What is the minimum waiting period most states require before cremation can take place?

Answer: 24–48 hours

Most US states require a minimum waiting period of 24–48 hours before cremation to allow for medical examiner review and documentation to be completed.

What are 'cremation keepsake urns'?

Answer: Small urns designed to hold a portion of cremated remains for multiple family members

Cremation keepsake urns are small containers designed to hold a small portion of cremated remains, allowing multiple family members to each keep a portion.

When scattering cremated remains on private property in the US, what is typically required?

Answer: Permission from the property owner

Scattering cremated remains on private property generally requires only the permission of the property owner, though state and local laws vary.

What is 'green cremation' or 'eco-cremation'?

Answer: Alkaline hydrolysis marketed as an environmentally lower-impact alternative to flame cremation

Green cremation typically refers to alkaline hydrolysis (aquamation), which uses significantly less energy and produces fewer emissions than traditional flame cremation.

What must a crematory do if it receives a body with a pacemaker that was not removed?

Answer: Refuse to accept the body until the pacemaker is removed

Crematories should refuse to accept or proceed with cremating a body that contains a pacemaker until it is removed, due to the explosion risk.

What is a 'cremation certificate'?

Answer: A document certifying that cremation has been completed and identifying the remains

A cremation certificate is a formal document issued by the crematory confirming that cremation has been completed and identifying the specific remains.