1. Who to contact when a death occurs?

2. How does the process work?

Once a death has occurred call us directly and talk to one of our licensed staff. We will then transfer your loved one into our care where they are kept in a licensed, secured refrigerated facility. Once we have completed the documentation with you (in person or over email/fax) we will then be in touch with the necessary branches of the government to move ahead. We proceed by transferring your loved one to the crematorium/cemetery. In the case of cremation, it can take up to 5 business days to get the cremated remains back to our office. (From the time of first contact). At this point the documents and cremated remains will be ready for you to pick up in our offices.

3. What happens during the cremation process?

The casket or container is placed into the cremation chamber where the temperature is raised between 1400 and 1800 degrees Fahrenheit. After approximately 3 hours all organic matter is consumed by heat or evaporation. The residue which is left is bone fragments, known as cremated remains. The cremated remains are then carefully removed from the cremation chamber. Any metal is removed with a magnet and later disposed of in an approved manner. The cremated remains are then processed into fine particles and are placed in a temporary container provided by the crematory or placed in an urn purchased by the family. The entire process takes approximately three hours. Throughout the cremation process, a carefully controlled labeling system ensures correct identification.

4. How can I be sure I’m receiving my loved one’s cremated remains back?

At Affordable Cremation Options, we have strict guidelines we follow. All identification is carefully checked when the removal is made from the place of death. This process is witnessed by an employee of the hospital, nursing home, Coroner’s Office or a family member present at the home or place of removal. An identification band is placed on the wrist of the deceased. Before leaving the place of death, each staff person confirms all existing paperwork with the identification tag. At the crematorium, a stainless steel identification disc is assigned and placed with the deceased at the actual time of our arrival. This disc remains with the individual throughout the entire cremation process. After the cremation is completed, the identification disc is placed in the urn with the cremated remains.

5. Is cremation a substitute for a funeral?

6. Can family members witness a cremation?

7. What can I do with the cremated remains?

8. Is it legal to scatter cremated remains?

Scattering is permitted on any Crown land, including in water. National parks prohibit the scattering of cremated remains in water, although you may “cast them to the wind” without obtaining permission. You may also scatter cremated remains in most municipal parks and cemeteries but only with permission from the municipality. When scattering cremated remains on private property, it is important to obtain permission from the owner of the land prior to the scattering. In any case, when scattering cremated remains, it is recommended that the scattering be done with discretion.

9. What happens to Pacemakers and Medical Devices?

10. Can the family arrange its own service and just use you for the handling of the body?

11. What makes Affordable Burials and Cremations so affordable compared to other providers?

12. Who are the people behind Affordable Burials and Cremations?

13. Is there any reason I would require a traditional funeral home?

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FAQ has the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.