Where do I start? Who do I call? What do I do next?
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015
A lot of misunderstanding exists in the funeral industry. As a Certifi ed Funeral Service Professional, I have spent the last 22+ years guiding and serving the families in our community through this diffi cult time. Researching your options ahead of time, is invaluable when choosing a funeral
home or funeral service provider, ask questions:What are your average costs of burial or cremation services? With whom are you making arrangements? Is the funeral service provider family owned or corporately owned? If I prepay and change my mind is my money refundable? Can I make changes to the prearrangements in the future? Are the prices of my arrangements guaranteed? If a death occurs at home who do I call? If hospice care has not been arranged, or a death occurs suddenly, you must call 911. What if a death occurs away from home? Then the family should contact their local funeral director who will coordinate the return of the deceased to their facility.
Burial or Cremation
Many people know whether they prefer a casketed burial or cremation, but have they told their families? This is so important to make known to avoid confusion at the time of death.Is embalming required by law? No. Embalming is only necessary when a public viewing is requested or other circumstances make it necessary. Most funeral service providers offer refrigeration facilities as an alternative to embalming when a viewing is not selected. Cremation Options: A cremation may follow a viewing and/or funeral service instead of a casketed burial. A cremation can take place immediately, after 12 hours following death by Maryland State Law. Some faiths do require burial of the cremated remains. Many families will choose to keep the cremated remains at home or scatter them in a place of their choosing. By Maryland State Law, permission must be granted for scattering cremated remains on public property and is not usually allowed on the Chesapeake Bay.
Liners/Vaults
Do I have to purchase the outer burial container at the cemetery? No. Funeral homes also sell the outer burial containers, and it may be at a reduced price. Again, check your options before you buy. The outer burial container is not a requirement by law but a requirement of the cemetery for an in-ground burial. Check with the cemetery for their minimum requirements.
Cemeteries
As you now know, some funeral homes are family owned and operated and some are owned by a large out-of-state corporation. The same applies to cemeteries. There are many options to choose from and a funeral service provider can help guide you in your choices. Do some homework – check the website of your local funeral service providers for more information. Some websites list prices and helpful links, such as local cemeteries, fl orists, restaurants/reception options, monument dealers and nearby hotels for out of town guests.
Sherri Collins-Witzke, CFSPVice President/Manager
Harry H. Witzke’s Family Funeral Home, Inc.
4112 Old Columbia PikeEllicott City, MD 21043
PHONE: 410-465-2848 FAX: 410-465-0020
www.harrywitzkefuneralhome.com
