A mortuary is a facility that provides storage, preparation and services for deceased individuals prior to burial or cremation. It offers dignified treatment and adheres to regulations governing funeral arrangements.
Many people have seen a depiction of a mortuary in movies and TV shows. However, what is shown isn’t entirely accurate.
Preparation of the Deceased for Disposition
The choice to bury or cremation an individual’s remains can have many different effects on those left behind. Understanding how to properly care for a deceased loved one and the many options available can help you make an informed decision when it comes time to say goodbye.
Mortuaries provide storage and preparation facilities for deceased individuals prior to final disposition. This includes services like embalming, casketing and facilitating viewing for family members and friends.
Embalming is a practice that involves chemically treating the body to reduce microorganisms, slow organic decomposition and restore an acceptable physical appearance to the deceased for a funeral service. This process may be necessary if family members plan on having an open casket funeral where a public display is planned.
Burial and cremation practices are highly regulated by state and local laws and ordinances which can impact everything from licensing requirements for funeral directors and embalmers to burial permit requirements and environmental regulations. This complexity is why it’s important to work with experienced professionals when making your choices.
Cremation
The decision to cremate a loved one is often based on spiritual/religious beliefs, financial considerations and family preference. The funeral home’s urn selection is also an important factor to consider.
When a cremation takes place, the body is placed in a cremation furnace, known as a retort, and exposed to extreme heat (up to 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit) reducing the bones to ash. After cremation, the ashes are carefully swept out of the chamber and inspected for any melted metal (from items like casket hinges and pins; titanium hip replacements that do not melt; and dental fillings). The non-consumed remains are then processed into the final ash product.
Mortuary laws vary widely by state, but most require that funeral homes provide transparent pricing and clear information to consumers. These regulations are designed to protect families and help prevent exploitative practices. Many states also have ethical codes that funeral directors must adhere to promoting honesty, integrity and professionalism.
Burial
Burial is a practice that can take many forms, and it has long been associated with spirituality. In fact, burial has been a key element of many religious practices, and it’s often considered a necessary step for an individual to reach the afterlife. In addition, it’s been used to prevent unpleasant odors from decomposing bodies and for a variety of other reasons.
Cremation and burial regulations vary by state, but funeral homes must comply with all applicable laws to operate legally. This includes licensing requirements for embalmers and funeral directors, as well as rules governing body disposal methods like cremation and burial. It also includes regulations regarding proper documentation and adherence to cemetery rules.
Funeral home regulations also include consumer protections such as transparent pricing, written contracts, and disclosures of available services and merchandise. This helps ensure dignified treatment of families and guards against exploitative practices. Some states even require funeral homes to offer alternative burial methods like green burials.
Funeral Services
Some people may confuse mortuaries with funeral homes, but there’s a distinction. While both focus on end-of-life care, funeral homes offer more extensive support and services to help grieving families.
Mortuaries typically provide more specialized care like embalming, casket selection and other preparations. They also offer more options for viewing and memorialization services.
Many states have regulations regarding the handling, transportation and storage of deceased individuals within mortuary facilities. These regulations ensure dignified treatment and adherence to health and safety standards.
Mortuaries can offer both burial and cremation services, while funeral homes usually offer only funeral services. They can be either pre-need or at-need providers, allowing individuals to make arrangements ahead of time or after the death of a loved one. Both companies often require customers to sign written contracts detailing agreed-upon services, merchandise and costs as well as responsibilities, payment terms, cancellation policies and any additional fees or charges. This allows families to feel confident they are receiving a fair and transparent price for their loved ones’ funeral services.