If you Are Planning a Burial at Sea, here are Some Helpful Options

Posted on November 7, 2022 by Mitchell-Jerdan Funeral Home Ltd. under cremation
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cremation services in Charleston, IL

Add sea burials are a time-honored and traditional choice that has been utilized for thousands of years. Whether the individual is requesting complete body disposal or ash spreading after the cremation services in Charleston, IL, It is crucial to understand the steps and requirements of this type of event. There are a few considerations to make the process easier; we have them listed here for you. 

Rules and Regulations 

The at sea burial has a specific process that needs to take place and is governed by the EPA or the Environmental Protection Agency. They have specific requirements that need to be met to complete this event, and they include: 

  • Anything that needs to be placed in the water needs to be biodegradable. 
  • Only human remains or allowed to be disposed of in the ocean. 
  • The event must occur at least three nautical miles from the shore. 
  • The depth of the water needs to be between 600 and 1800 feet, depending on the location. 
  • The EPA must be notified at least 30 days before the event. 
  • Recommended preparation for the casket is to have at least 300 pounds of weight and 22-inch holes drilled into it to ensure it reaches the bottom of the ocean. 

Naval 

Individuals who served in the military might choose this as an option, and it doesn’t matter which branch they performed in. Traditionally the family will not be able to attend the event because the services are completed on a deployed vessel. Once the disposal is completed, the family will be notified of the event’s location, time, and date. 

Civilian 

Civilian disposals are typically completed with a company specializing in chartering boats for these events. A funeral director will need to be on board to oversee the process until the interment is completed, and the price range will vary depending on the type of vessel and details of the event. 

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Cremation 

Cremation is one of the easier options because the ashes can be scattered off a boat. If the loved one requested more of a burial-style option, you might consider purchasing a biodegradable urn and releasing that into the waves because as it breaks down, the ashes will be dispersed. 

Other Considerations 

Any of these ceremonies can be accompanied by personalized additions, and some of the most common options include: 

  • Releasing paper lanterns, doves, or butterflies 
  • Flower petals placed in the water with the release 
  • Giving a eulogy or playing the loved one’s favorite music 

For Trusted Services with Compassionate Care, we are Here for You 

Burying the loved one in the water can be an excellent option to commemorate them, and this helpful guide can make getting the process started much easier. Finding a professional company to assist you with cremation services in Charleston, IL, can make a difference in your experience, and we would love to help you. We are a locally owned company and have been caring for our community with a focus on honesty and integrity, so contact us today. 

Mitchell-Jerdan Funeral Home Ltd.

Since 1985, Gregory and Sylvia Jerdan have operated the family business with a commitment to serve their community and surrounding area with dignity and respect. They plan to continue into the future as the "people you can rely on, both today and tomorrow".