A burial at sea is something a lot of people may not realize can still be done today. It is not just for sea captains or something that is only done in the movies. However, there is a lot to know about being buried at sea so it's not something you can just do on your own without taking certain precautions. If you or someone you know is interested in a burial at sea, you will want to review the following.
The Casket Goes Into The Ocean
The body of the deceased is kept in the casket, but certain alterations will need to be made to it before it is dropped into the sea. For example, after the viewings and right before the burial at sea, several holes will need to be drilled along the sides of the casket. This will allow water to enter the casket, which makes it sink much faster. Some people choose to add weights to the inside of the casket as well, just to make sure it sinks immediately. Not only is this to prevent a casket from washing up on shore somewhere someday, but it ensures that your loved one will be buried at sea in the exact area you wanted them to be laid to rest.
It Has To Be A Biodegradable Container For Ashes
Some people decide that they want to be cremated and then have their ashes buried at sea. This is a little different than simply spreading the ashes into open water. The ashes will remain in a weighted container that is dropped into the ocean, just like the caskets are dropped in. However, you cannot just drop any container in the ocean. For example, it cannot be made out of plastic. It has to be a biodegradable container so it will break down and dissolve in a short amount of time.
Now that you have all of that information in mind, you should be able to decide whether burial at sea is still something you would like. If it is, you now know that you need to start planning for it well in advance. Giving yourself at least a month to get everything worked out is usually best. Make sure that you are passing this information on to your family if you want to someday be buried at sea. Include the instructions and your wishes in your final will and testament and make sure that the document is in a safe place where it can be easily found when you pass away.
For more information about sea memorials, contact a funeral home, such as Teraloom.
