Common Cremation Myths Debunked

Debunking 10 Common Cremation Myths

While cremation is one of the most common forms of final disposition, there are still many myths surrounding costs, the overall process and how the remains are handled. If you’re contemplating this final disposition method you may be feeling a bit uneasy due to all of the cremation myths circulating the internet. In order to ease your mind, AG Peters & Son has debunked several common cremation myths & revealed the truth behind each misconception.

10 Cremation Myths – Debunked by Industry Professionals

Myth 1: You could get some else’s remains.
Debunked: This is by far the most common cremation misconception, yet it is nearly impossible for this to happen. Crematories must adhere to strict guidelines, policies and procedures during the entire cremation process. One of which is keeping a metal ID tag with the body from initial identification through final cremation and transfer to the urn.

Myth 2: Cremation is a cheaper option than burial.
Debunked: When looking at the average cost of a cremation vs. a traditional burial service, this statement is true. However, added cremation fees such as urn, memorial service, stationary and other such personalized items can quickly make the cost of cremation just as expensive as a burial or even more so.

Myth 3: You can’t travel with ashes.
Debunked: While traveling with cremated remains is not banned, the TSA and individual airlines do have guidelines that must be followed. It is best to check with the airline you’re using before making any travel plans.

Myth 4: The process involves fire.
Debunked: Another very common cremation myth is that during the process your loved one is engulfed in a huge fire, but this is not the case. With modern technological advances, cremation furnaces exude high heats of up to 2,000 degrees to quickly convert the body into the “ashes” you receive.

Myth 5: Cremation turns the body into ashes.
Debunked: Although the word “ashes” is used, even by those in the industry, to describe what is left after cremation, that is not what you’re actually receiving. The proper term to use is “cremated remains” and it consists of pulverized bone matter, a fine, grainy powder.

Myth 6: You can’t have a funeral if you’re cremated.
Debunked: Choosing to have your loved one cremated does not mean you cannot honor their life and legacy by having a funeral service. You can purchase a cremation urn, hold a viewing and bury the urn as well. When it comes to paying homage to a loved one that has passed away, there are no set rules in place.

Myth 7: Scattering ashes is illegal.
Debunked: It is not illegal to scatter ashes at a place that was meaningful to your loved one. However, it is best to check with the land owner beforehand.

Myth 8: You have to purchase a cremation urn from a funeral home.
Debunked: It is completely up to you where you chose to purchase your cremation urn. Funeral homes are not allowed to refuse the casket or urn you purchased elsewhere. View our tips to purchasing affordable cremation urns for every budget.

Myth 9: Cremation for pets & humans is different.
Debunked: The process to cremate a pet and a human is essentially the same. Crematoriums use the same equipment and follow the same guidelines for both.

Myth 10: Cremation is harmful to the environment.
Debunked: Crematoriums must be compliant with rules & regulations set by the environmental protection service in regards to the gases the chamber emits. While we wouldn’t classify cremation is truly eco-friendly, there are many other green burial options you can look into if that is very important to you or your loved one.

Funeral & Cremation Supplies

We hope our list of debunked cremation myths eases your mind about choosing this form of final disposition for yourself or your loved one. Throughout the years it has become a very common choice, but you should continue to do your research and choose the method that you are most conformable with.