If your loved one chose to be buried in a cemetery, you’ll have the privilege of visiting their final resting place to mourn and pay your respects. Though, when you go, it’s important to remember that cemeteries are sensitive places for many visitors and etiquette should be followed. To ensure you’re respectful to others when visiting your loved one’s grave marker, there are a few tips you should keep in mind.

3 Etiquette Tips for Visiting a Cemetery

1. Respect the Graver Markers

As you spend time in the cemetery, remember that every monument—from simple grave markers to elaborate mausoleums—represents someone’s loved one. Avoid putting weight or resting personal objects on them. Unless you’re with a loved one of the deceased, don’t touch an unknown grave marker. If you’re visiting with children, make sure they are aware of this rule as well.

2. Keep Track of Your Pets

It’s not uncommon to see pets, especially dogs, at cemeteries, and some may even recognize a past owner’s final resting place. Before bringing a pet, check the cemetery rules to see if they’re allowed. If they are, keep them on a leash for the duration of the visit, and make sure they don’t go to the bathroom near a grave marker.

3. Clean Up

If you brought flowers in a shopping bag or wrapping paper, avoid leaving behind any trash. Also, pick up trash left behind by others. This shows respect to the place and ensures that your loved one’s final resting spot stays clean and beautiful when others visit. 

When you need a beautiful grave marker for a loved one, turn to Sweet-Woods Memorial Co. in Oswego County, NY. This family-owned business has been creating lasting memorials, plaques, mausoleums, and other monuments since 1932. To learn more about their grave markers, visit their website or call them at (315) 695-3376.