Is a burial vault required?
Most cemeteries do not have a by-law insisting that a burial vault or grave liner be used. Some people choose a burial vault to protect the casket or to minimize the settling of the ground after burial. A vault can be purchased at the funeral home. BACK TO TOP • What is embalming and is it required? Embalming is a process whereby the body is disinfected, preserved and restored to allow it to be suitably presented in an open casket. Preparation of the body normally includes washing, dressing, hairdressing and cosmetic work as well as embalming. Embalming as a practice goes back as far as ancient Egypt. It became more common in North America after the American Civil War. While embalming is not required by law, most funeral homes, including Chapel Ridge have a policy of requiring embalming if a casket is to be open for viewing. BACK TO TOP • How soon after death do we have to start any visitation or services? There is no set time period. Sufficient time must be allowed to ensure that the
