Is Embalming a Legal Requirement?
A Process Going Back Centuries
Recorded in history as far back as the Egyptians, embalming was a type of preservation done by the wealthy as a key step to living well in the afterlife. The process was successful, allowing Egyptian mummies to be well preserved for thousands of years.
Modern-Day Reasons to Embalm a Body
In more modern times, not only has the embalming process changed, but the purpose of completing the process has also changed. For one, embalming has been done in recent years to disinfect the remains, to ensure the safety of all who must handle the remains. This was important in past years when contagious diseases like malaria and typhoid fever caused a lot of deaths.
In addition, the process is completed to preserve the remains for a wake, when family and friends gather to view the remains and pay their respects to a loved one who has died.
A Suggestion when Funerals are Delayed
Although embalming does not prevent decomposition of a body, it does help when there is a delay between the time of death and the time of a visitation, burial or cremation. When family live far away or in other countries, embalming a body provides a little more time for loved ones to arrange details such as childcare and transportation. The process allows distant loved ones the chance to arrive so that they, too, can view and mourn the deceased.
The Legalities Behind Embalming in Canada
Whether embalming is a legal requirement is one of the most frequently asked questions of a funeral director. In Canada, there is not any law that stipulates embalming is a requirement. However, it may be a policy of various funeral homes if there is going to be a visitation or open casket service. Be sure to ask funeral home staff what their policy is on this issue.
Transporting a Body Out of the Country
When transporting a body out of Ontario or by public carrier such as an airline, embalming becomes a requirement. The funeral home will be able to assist you with these details.
Circle of Life Will Help You Navigate the Funeral Details
When it comes to the death of a loved one, it can be difficult to navigate the many decisions that need to be made, including whether embalming will need to be completed.
The staff at Circle of Life Cremation and Burial Centre Inc. are here to make the process as easy as possible for you and your loved ones. Let our professional staff assist you in making some of the most important decisions you will ever have to make. Contact us today to discuss our many services available.
