Sands Funeral Chapels

Question: What is an autopsy and is it always required?
Answer: An autopsy (or post mortem examination) is the medical examination of the body after death has occurred. The autopsy can be ordered by the Coroner if required to investigate the death to determine: the cause of death; the manner of death; to continue the clinical study of the case; investigate problems of physical, chemical, bacteriological, pathological and anatomical conditions. The Coroner has the authority to order an autopsy without the consent of the next of kin. There are times when the attending physician or the family members themselves may request an autopsy, however, an autopsy is not necessarily required.

Question: What does the average funeral cost?
Answer: Like other professional services (legal, dental, medical) the costs depend on the services, merchandise and final disposition method chosen by each family. Each service planned is as unique as the family who makes the arrangements. There are many variables and options from which the family can choose. Only when all options are presented, can a cost be determined. By provincial law, all funeral providers must supply an itemized copy of their price list to the consumer. Please contact a Sands Funeral Chapel representative for more information.

Question: What is the reason for embalming?
Answer: Embalming is a surgical technique used to disinfect, preserve and restore the human body to an acceptable physical appearance. The foremost reason for embalming is the protection of public health. Contrary to the old belief that "the germ dies with the host", human remains begin to decompose almost immediately, therefore offering an ideal environment for microbial growth. Untreated remains can pose serious public health concerns. Additionally, embalming restores the body to an acceptable physical appearance. Restoration is not intended to make the deceased look like the person did during life but rather to enhance the appearance of the deceased and allow for viewing. Many experts on bereavement agree that viewing the deceased confirms the reality of death and helps survivors take an important step toward recovering from their loss. Under provincial regulation, embalming can only be performed if by written acknowledgment on the funeral services contract. Please note that embalming may be required if the deceased is being transported by air to another country where local laws need be observed.

Question: Where do I get a copy of the official death certificate?
Answer: In most cases, the Sands funeral director will provide the death certificate(s) on behalf of the Division of Vital Statistics. The attending physician does not provide the death certificate but rather a "Medical Certification of Death'. These terms can be used interchangeably and can sometimes cause confusion. The Medical Certification of Death is required in order to apply for a Death Certificate. The Sands funeral director will assist you with obtaining the various certificates.

Question: Do I have to use a funeral home?
Answer: There is no law that states that you must use a funeral home. There are however, so many details that need to be looked after that in most cases a trained professional is the best person to handle the matter. Most people are not equipped to handle the storage or transportation of the deceased from the place of death; construction of container or casket; obtaining the necessary permits; etc. Please contact a Sands Funeral Chapel representative for more information.

Question: Are there any laws about scattering cremated remains?
Answer: No - cremated remains can be scattered on land, sea or by air, however this decision should be carefully considered. Cremated remains should not be scattered on private property without permission. Although the act of scattering may have some romantic appeal it is an irreversible decision and leaves no permanent memorial site.

Question: Is a casket the same as a coffin?
Answer: These terms are used interchangeably but a casket is not the same as a coffin. A casket is a rectangular shaped burial receptacle. A coffin is an eight-sided burial receptacle shaped to fit a body which tapers from the head to the area for the shoulders. A coffin is rarely used or available in North America.

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	For your convenience Sands Funeral Chapels has listed some commonly asked questions concerning funerals. Should you have any other questions or concerns not listed please feel free to call, E-Mail, visit one of Sands Chapels or use our "Help Form" for any questions or concerns you may have. Common Questions About Cremation, Burial And Funerals Question: What is an autopsy and is it always required? Answer: An autopsy (or post mortem examination) is the medical examination of the body after death has occurred. The autopsy can be ordered by the Coroner if required to investigate the death to determine: the cause of death; the manner of death; to continue the clinical study of the case; investigate problems of physical, chemical, bacteriological, pathological and anatomical conditions. The Coroner has the authority to order an autopsy without the consent of the next of kin. There are times when the attending physician or the family members themselves may request an autopsy, however, an autopsy is not necessarily required. Question: What does the average funeral cost? Answer: Like other professional services (legal, dental, medical) the costs depend on the services, merchandise and final disposition method chosen by each family. Each service planned is as unique as the family who makes the arrangements. There are many variables and options from which the family can choose. Only when all options are presented, can a cost be determined. By provincial law, all funeral providers must supply an itemized copy of their price list to the consumer. Please contact a Sands Funeral Chapel representative for more information. Question: What is the reason for embalming? Answer: Embalming is a surgical technique used to disinfect, preserve and restore the human body to an acceptable physical appearance. The foremost reason for embalming is the protection of public health. Contrary to the old belief that "the germ dies with the host", human remains begin to decompose almost immediately, therefore offering an ideal environment for microbial growth. Untreated remains can pose serious public health concerns. Additionally, embalming restores the body to an acceptable physical appearance. Restoration is not intended to make the deceased look like the person did during life but rather to enhance the appearance of the deceased and allow for viewing. Many experts on bereavement agree that viewing the deceased confirms the reality of death and helps survivors take an important step toward recovering from their loss. Under provincial regulation, embalming can only be performed if by written acknowledgment on the funeral services contract. Please note that embalming may be required if the deceased is being transported by air to another country where local laws need be observed. Question: Where do I get a copy of the official death certificate? Answer: In most cases, the Sands funeral director will provide the death certificate(s) on behalf of the Division of Vital Statistics. The attending physician does not provide the death certificate but rather a "Medical Certification of Death'. These terms can be used interchangeably and can sometimes cause confusion. The Medical Certification of Death is required in order to apply for a Death Certificate. The Sands funeral director will assist you with obtaining the various certificates. Question: Do I have to use a funeral home? Answer: There is no law that states that you must use a funeral home. There are however, so many details that need to be looked after that in most cases a trained professional is the best person to handle the matter. Most people are not equipped to handle the storage or transportation of the deceased from the place of death; construction of container or casket; obtaining the necessary permits; etc. Please contact a Sands Funeral Chapel representative for more information. Question: Are there any laws about scattering cremated remains? Answer: No - cremated remains can be scattered on land, sea or by air, however this decision should be carefully considered. Cremated remains should not be scattered on private property without permission. Although the act of scattering may have some romantic appeal it is an irreversible decision and leaves no permanent memorial site. Question: Is a casket the same as a coffin? Answer: These terms are used interchangeably but a casket is not the same as a coffin. A casket is a rectangular shaped burial receptacle. A coffin is an eight-sided burial receptacle shaped to fit a body which tapers from the head to the area for the shoulders. A coffin is rarely used or available in North America. Previous Page