Cremation Facts

What is Cremation?
Cremation is a process to prepare a deceased human person for final disposition by reducing them to bone fragments and skeletal particles through intense heat and flame. Cremation is a two-step process. After this first step has taken place, a person’s remains, mainly bone fragments and skeletal particles, are gathered and these remains are placed in a processor, creating a uniform powder-like texture. Due to the irreversible nature of cremation, most states require a waiting period before the actual process may begin. In Illinois, at least 24 hours must pass before cremation may be authorized.  

We own and operate our Cremation Center, so your loved one never leaves our care. Our facility is always open for your inspection.

What is the Purpose of a Cremation Container?
A cremation container holds a person with dignity and respect while in our custody and is designed for the viewing of a deceased loved one. A container will also allow for ease of transport and proper placement into the cremation chamber, also with dignity and respect. A cremation container also facilitates the cremation process and allows for safe handling of an individual for our associates while in our care. A proper cremation container prevents leakage of bodily fluid. Finally, the cremation container will be used during the identification process. Because we have standards to facilitate dignity and respect, we require a cremation container.

What is the Purpose of an Urn?
An urn is a specialized container to hold a person’s cremated remains. It will keep a person’s cremated remains together and protects the integrity of the cremated remains. An urn should be unbreakable, especially if dropped. Urns can be used for the following manners of final disposition: Interment, Entombment, Scattering, or Keepsake/Memorialization.

What happens during the cremation process?
The casket or container is placed in the cremation chamber, where the temperature is raised to approximately 1400-1625 degrees Fahrenheit. After approximately 2 to 2 ½ hours, all organic material is consumed by heat or evaporation. The remaining bone fragments are 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 the container (urn) selected by the family. The entire process takes approximately three-four hours. Throughout the cremation process, a carefully controlled labeling system ensures correct identification.

Are cremations done individually?
Yes. Laws require that only one person (placed in a casket or container) be cremated at a time.

When after death can a cremation take place?
Because cremation is an irreversible process and because the process itself will eliminate any ability to determine exact cause of death, many states require that the coroner or medical examiner authorize each cremation. Some states have specific minimum time limits that must elapse before cremation may take place. In Illinois, 24 hours must pass, plus all authorizations must be obtained prior to cremation.

Is any other preparation required prior to cremation?
It is essential that pacemakers and other medical devices (including radioactive implants) be removed prior to cremation. They may explode when subjected to high temperature, which can be hazardous to crematorium staff and equipment. In addition, any special mementos, such as jewelry, will be destroyed during the cremation process. The funeral director should remove anything you wish to keep before the casket is transferred to the crematory.

Why is refrigeration of the remains necessary?
Due to the irreversible nature of cremation, most states require a waiting period before the actual process may begin. Refrigeration is the only alternative available, other than embalming, that will retard tissue decomposition. Refrigeration is a necessity that protects family and friends, the crematory operator and the general public from potential health hazards.

Is embalming necessary for cremation?
No. Embalming is neither necessary nor required for cremation.

Is identification necessary?
Lincoln Land Cremation Society requires that your loved one be positively identified at our Cremation Center prior to cremation. This is a required procedure to eliminate the possibility of cremating the wrong individual (in the event that a person was misidentified by a hospital, nursing home, or other institution prior to being taken into our care). It also helps to reassure family members, so there are no unanticipated questions in the future. Our basic care ensures that your loved one is treated with dignity and respect while in our care. You may elect to have an extended family member or trusted family friend make this positive identification of your loved one on your behalf if you so desire. Two persons and up to ten minutes are given for this time. We will ask for appropriate clothing prior to this identification period, and your loved one will be identified in the container or casket selected for cremation.

How long does it take to cremate a body?
Cremating at the optimum temperature (1,400-1,800 degrees), the average weighted remains takes 2 to 2 ½ hours. Several more hours may be required before the cremated remains are available to the family.

Is it true that the bones are crushed after cremation?
I’ve heard you don’t get ashes back-what do you get?
A complete cremation is a two-step process. First, the actual exposure of the deceased to several hours of intense heat and flame; after which the remains are mostly ash except for certain bone fragments. Then, the entire remaining elements are gathered and these remains are placed in a processor, creating a uniform powder-like texture.

What can be done with the cremated remains?
With cremation, your options are numerous. The cremated remains can be interred in a cemetery plot, retained by a family member, scattered on private property or at a location that was significant to the deceased. It is advisable to check all regulations regarding scattering. Cremation is just one step in the commemorative process-the preparation of the human remains for memorialization.

Can I scatter the cremated remains on private property?
Yes, with the permission of the owner.

Why would I not want to scatter?
This can possibly be painful for survivors. Some people may find it hard to simply pour the mortal remains of a loved one out onto the ground or into a body of water. It is advisable to discuss this with the person(s) who potentially may be charged with this responsibility. Additionally, if scattering occurs in an undeveloped area, it may be developed in the future or the land use may change, making it difficult for survivors to visit the area. This is also a consideration if you use your own private property and the property has the potential to leave your family ownership. Lastly, once scattered, the remains are not able to be collected back up.

Why is having a place to visit so important?
Because it provides a focal point for memorializing the deceased. To remember, and be remembered, are natural human needs. Throughout human history, memorialization of the dead has been a key component of almost every culture. Psychologists say that remembrance practices serve an important emotional function for survivors to help begin the healing process.

Can I take the cremated remains home?
Yes. The remains are normally placed in an urn. Most families select an urn that is suitable for placement in a selected area of the home (to serve as a memorial area for remembering). Urns are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials.

Do all religions permit cremation?
Some religions prefer cremation; some do not recommend the practice; most permit you to choose. Should you have any questions or concerns, we will research the matter for you in a private manner.

Do all funeral homes and cemeteries have a crematory?
No, actually only a small percentage of cremation service providers own their own cremation facilities. We own and operate our own Cremation Center, so your loved one never leaves our care. Our facility is always open for your inspection.