When you're making funeral arrangements for yourself or a loved one, you're typically faced with two choices: cremation or burial. To help you decide between the two, Fred D. Knapp & Son Funeral Home in Greenwich, CT, explains the details of each in the sections below.

Understanding Burial

If you choose burial services, the body remains intact until it’s interred, either in the ground or in a mausoleum. Traditionally, the body is embalmed and made ready for a viewing and funeral service, although in some cases, burial can take place immediately after death without embalming, or after embalming but before a memorial service.

The latter two options typically do not allow loved ones to visit with the deceased. Burial is typically more expensive than cremation, and it usually occurs in a licensed cemetery, although in some jurisdictions, burial on private property is allowed. For instance, in Connecticut, no laws preclude home burial, although zoning restrictions apply, and you must hire a licensed funeral director to handle the arrangements. Connecticut requires embalming, only if death was the result of a contagious disease.

Understanding Cremation

If you choose cremation, the body is immolated, and the ashes are collected for future burial, entombment, home display, or dispersal. Cremation can take place immediately after death, before a memorial service, or after embalming and a traditional funeral service. It is typically less expensive than burial since cremation usually does not require the purchase of a casket, which is one of the costliest aspects of burial. However, most crematories require the body to be placed in some sort of container before the cremation occurs.

If you still cannot decide whether cremation or burial is the right choice for your circumstance, the professionals at Fred D. Knapp & Son Funeral Home in Greenwich, CT, can offer guidance and help you understand your options. The compassionate, dignified funeral service experts have offered guidance and a steady presence during difficult times. Visit the website for contact details, or call (203) 869-0315 to speak with a helpful, courteous representative.