So a bunch of my friends & I were talking and one asked if Disney allows cremated ashes to be spread in the park? My first guess would be, no. Especially during hours of operation. Anyone have info?
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Speading cremated ashes at WDW
- Thread starter Dream Theater
- Start date
nolatron
Well-Known Member
Doubt it due to possible health risks.
Here's a recent thread about a woman who tossed ashes all over POTC.
http://forums.wdwmagic.com/showthread.php?t=247546&highlight=ashes
Here's a recent thread about a woman who tossed ashes all over POTC.
http://forums.wdwmagic.com/showthread.php?t=247546&highlight=ashes
From my understanding WDW receives about 2 official requests for this per year all of which are denied.
Only 2! That's less than I thought. I guess most people just don't ask.
I thought that number was low myself. Two a day was more in line with what I was thinking.
bobjl527
Member
I have been curious about health risks when it comes to cremains. I spoke with my friend who has a degree in mortuary science. This is what he told me: Unless you put the cremains up to your nose and snort them, there are are no health risks associated with cremains. Any disease the person may have had or died from is totally vaporized by the intense heat. So no one should be freaked out by catching something.
I can understand the creepiness involved however, and the fact that Disney has the right to not allow cremains scattered on their property. However, I am sure there are plenty of deceased Disney fans "scattered" throughout the parks that Disney has no idea about. When the cremains are pulverized after the actuall cremation, it is nothing but a fine powder and no one would even notice once it has been sprinkled in water or a grassy area.
bobjl527
Member
I am sure that there are many different ways of processing cremains. I have been told that after cremation, the ashes are processed through a pulverizing machine, reducing the larger fragments into powder. I hope I am not getting too graphic. The finished product is very similar to cigarette ashes. I saw the cremains of a friend of mine before they were intered, no large fragments at all.
duck_daddy
New Member
Ehh......... wrong answer boss. The ashes are very fine, and no health risks are present in the ashes as they are basically put through an autoclave. I've voiced my opinions in the other thread. In summary: There are no health risks involved with cremated remains. Humans, by nature are far less sanitary than the remains themselves. Is it smart? No. Does it pose danger to society? No. Case in point, it's illegal, don't do it! Could it be done? Yes and with no harm to the human population.
k.hunter30
New Member
I think you must be right. I too have seen cremated remains that is nothing more that what you describe. Though, as you explained, that's not to say that it is done differently at different places.
sbkline
Well-Known Member
Personally, I think it's kind of twisted, or weird at the very least, to scatter someone's ashes at WDW.
But even before reading this thread, I never really thought there would be any health risks involved. I don't see human ashes as being any different than any other ashes. Ashes blow around in the air all the time and don't seem to cause any health problems. Unless, of course, a huge quantity is blown right in your face or something. But fire is a natural phenomenon that has been with us since the beginning of time. And with fire comes ashes, and with ashes comes wind to scatter them around, or water to dissolve them into the soil. This has been taking place for millinea with no adverse affects to the population. So I see no reason to worry about human ashes blowing around at WDW.
But like I said...I think it's incredibly tacky and weird to do such things. But that's just me.
But even before reading this thread, I never really thought there would be any health risks involved. I don't see human ashes as being any different than any other ashes. Ashes blow around in the air all the time and don't seem to cause any health problems. Unless, of course, a huge quantity is blown right in your face or something. But fire is a natural phenomenon that has been with us since the beginning of time. And with fire comes ashes, and with ashes comes wind to scatter them around, or water to dissolve them into the soil. This has been taking place for millinea with no adverse affects to the population. So I see no reason to worry about human ashes blowing around at WDW.
But like I said...I think it's incredibly tacky and weird to do such things. But that's just me.
BeentoallDParks
Active Member
That woman who dumped the ashes in POTC demonstrates a big lack of connection with reality. POTC is an indoor environment! It's not a stream or a lake. Just who does she think is going to have to clean up those ashes once they're clogging the system? Some unlucky CM is going to have to get busy with rubber gloves and they're going to have to clean out clumps of human remains! What a horrible thing to do to another person. How incredibly selfish and totally disconnected with reality. Honestly--I don't understand some fans.
duck_daddy
New Member
I figured since numerous opinions with little scientifically based statements have been presented here I would do a little research. Here is a brief Q&A I found on the internet for your viewing pleasure. While this is in layman's terms I think it covers most of the questions most people may have about the cremation process. Overall: Is it weird? Yes. Should they be spread in public places? No. Is it gonna kill you? No. Here is the link: http://www.icfa.org/cremation.htm#Cremation2
Here is the article: [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]
What happens during the cremation process?[/FONT]
Here is the article: [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]
What happens during the cremation process?[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]The casket or container is placed in the cremation chamber, where the temperature is raised to approximately 1400 degrees to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit. After approximately, 2 to 2 1/2 hours, all organic matter is consumed by heat or evaporation. The residue which is left is bone fragments, known as cremated remains. The cremated remains are then carefully removed from the cremation chamber. Any metal is removed with a magnet and later disposed of in an approved manner. The cremated remains are then processed into fine particles and are placed in the container provided by the crematorium or placed in an urn purchased by the family. The entire process takes approximately three hours. Throughout the cremation process, a carefully controlled labelling system ensures correct identification.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Although there are several manufacturers of cremation units, the optimum temperature range is 1400 degrees to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Cremating at the optimum temperature (1400 - 1800 degrees), the average weighted remains takes 2 to 2 1/2 hours. Several more hours may be required before the cremated remains are available to the family.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Yes. Laws require that only one casket or container is cremated at a time.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Yes, the body is exposed to direct heat and flame. Cremation is performed by placing the deceased in a casket or other container and then placing the casket or container into a cremation chamber or retort, where they are subjected to intense heat and flame.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Because cremation is an irreversible process and because the process itself will eliminate any ability to determine exact cause of death, many states require that each cremation be authorized by the coroner or medical examiner. Some states have specific minimum time limits that must elapse before cremation may take place. Your [/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica]local funeral service provider[/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica] can advise you of applicable regulations, if any.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]It is essential that pacemakers and other medical devices be removed prior to cremation. They may explode when subjected to high temperature, which can be hazardous to crematorium staff and equipment. In addition, any special mementos, such as jewelry, will be destroyed during the cremation process. Anything you wish to keep should be removed by the funeral director before the casket or container is transferred to the crematorium.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]A complete cremation is a two-step process. Firstly, the actual exposure of the deceased to several hours of intense heat and flame; after which the remains are mostly ash except for certain bone fragments, then the entire remaining ash and fragment volume is gathered and run through a processor, creating a uniform powder-like texture.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Due to the irreversible nature of cremation, most states require a waiting period before the actual process may begin. Refrigeration is the only alternative available, other than embalming, that will tissue decomposition. Refrigeration is a necessity that protects family and friends, the crematory operator and the general public from potential health hazards.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]No. It is your choice. It may depend on such factors as whether the family selected a service with a public viewing of the body with an open casket, or to enhance the deceased's appearance for a private family viewing; if the body is going to be transported by air or rail, or because of the length of time prior to the cremation.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]No. For sanitary reasons, ease of placement and dignity, many cremations require that the deceased be cremated in a combustible, leak proof, rigid, covered container. This does not need to be a casket as such. What is required is an enclosed, rigid, container made of wood or other combustible material to allow for the dignified handling of human remains. The type of casket or container selected is really a personal decision, Caskets and containers are available in a wide variety of materials ranging from simple cardboard containers to beautifully handcrafted oak, maple or mahogany caskets.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]There is a choice of very affordable cremation caskets that are completely combustible. The selection includes options from a plain cardboard container to a hardwood casket.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Many funeral homes offer a hardwood ceremonial casket for viewing or funeral services prior to cremation. The ceremonial (or rental) casket is specifically designed to provide a very aesthetically pleasing, affordable and environmentally prudent alternative to purchasing a casket for a cremation service.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Yes — It would be advisable that you discuss this situation with your cremation provider prior to the cremation. The size of your urn will be of great importance if you plan to have your loved one's entire cremated body included in this container.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Arrangements can usually be made through the Cremation Authorization Form for relatives or representatives of the deceased to witness the cremation.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]No - actually only a small percentage of cremation service providers have their own cremation units.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]No, cremation is simply a method of preparing human remains for final disposition.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]It really depends entirely on how you wish to commemorate a life. One of the advantages of cremation is that it provides you with increased flexibility when you make your funeral and cemetery arrangements. You might, for example, choose to have a funeral service before the cremation; a memorial service at the time of cremation or after the cremation with the urn present; or a committal service at the final disposition of cremated remains. Funeral or memorial services can be held in a place of worship, a funeral home or in a crematorium chapel.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]It's completely a matter of family preference. Many times when a family is split regarding the decision to cremate, a compromise may be achieved by having a traditional service first - to be followed by cremation.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]With cremation, your options are numerous. The cremains can be interred in a cemetery plot, i.e., earth burial, retained by a family member, usually in an urn, scattered on private property, or at a place that was significant to the deceased. (It would always be advisable to check for local regulations regarding scattering in a public place.) Cremation is just one step in the commemorative process-- the preparation of the human remains for memorialization. Today, there are many different types of memorial options from which to choose. Memorialization is a time-honored tradition that has been practiced for centuries. A memorial serves as a tribute to a life lived and provides a focal point for remembrance, as well as a record for future generations. The type of memorial you choose is a personal decision. The limit is set only by your imagination.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Yes, with permission of the owner.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]You might choose ground burial of the urn. If so, you may usually choose either a bronze memorial or monument. Also available at many cemeteries are cremation niches in columbariums. They offer the beauty of a mausoleum setting with the benefits of above ground placement of remains. Many cemeteries also offer scattering gardens. This area of a cemetery offers the peacefulness of a serene garden where family and friends can come and reflect.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]A columbarium, often located within a mausoleum or chapel, sometimes free-standing, either indoor or outdoor, is constructed of numerous small compartments (niches) designed to hold urns containing cremated remains.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]As long as it is permitted by local regulations, your cremated remains can be scattered in a place that is meaningful to you. This can, however, present difficulties for your survivors. Some people may find it hard to simply pour the mortal remains of a loved one out onto the ground or into the sea. If you wish to be scattered somewhere, it is therefore important to discuss your wishes ahead of time with the person or persons who will actually have to do the scattering.[/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Another difficulty with scattering can occur when the remains are disposed of in an anonymous, unmarked or public place. Access to the area may be restricted for some reason in the future, undeveloped land may be developed, or any of a host of other conditions may arise that could make it difficult for your survivors to visit the site to remember you. Even if your cremated remains are scattered in your backyard, what happens if your survivors relocate sometime in the future? Once scattered, cremated remains cannot easily be collected back up. Having your remains placed, interred or scattered on a cemetery's grounds ensures that future generations will have a place to go to remember.[/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica]If remains are scattered somewhere outside the cemetery, many cemeteries will allow you to place a memorial of some type on the cemetery grounds, so survivors have a place to visit that will always be maintained and preserved.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Because it provides a focal point for memorializing the deceased. To remember, and be remembered, are natural human needs. Throughout human history, memorialization of the dead has been a key component of almost every culture. The Washington Monument, Tomb of the Unknowns and Vietnam "Wall" in Washington, D.C are examples of memorialization which demonstrate that, throughout our history, we have always honored our dead.[/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Psychologists say that remembrance practices, from the funeral or memorial service to permanent memorialization, serve an important emotional function for survivors by helping to bring closure and allowing the healing process to begin.[/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Providing a permanent resting place for the deceased is a dignified treatment for a loved one's mortal remains, which fulfills the natural human desire for memorialization.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Yes — Depending upon the cemetery's policy, you may be able to save a grave space by having the cremains buried on top of your casketed spouse, or utilize the space provided next to him/her. Many cemeteries allow for multiple cremains to be interred in a single grave space.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Yes. The remains are normally placed in an urn. Most families select an urn that is suitable for placement on a mantle or shelf. Urns are available in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]The cost depends on the type of permanent memorial, location of the memorial, urn and placement selected.[/FONT]
- [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Some religions prefer cremation; some do not recommend the practice; most permit you to choose. Should you have any questions or concerns, we suggest you speak with a member of your clergy, or [/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica]contact your local prearrangement provider[/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica].[/FONT]
duck_daddy
New Member
Not clumpy!
sbkline
Well-Known Member
I always thought ashes would just dissolve into the water and not create any kind of clumpy mess that you would have to clean out of the filters. But I may be totally wrong.
But either way, I don't condone the practice. First off, I think it's kind of twisted and obsessive to bring someone's ashes along on vacation to dump while you're there.
Secondly, I don't care if you're talking about human ashes, cigarette ashes, shredded paper or whatever other kind of refuse we're talking about...it's just incredibly rude and tacky to be dumping such things into a ride at WDW...or many other places for that matter.
bobjl527
Member
Thank you. I was beginning to worry. Did I see my friend or did the funeral director slip his family some cigarette butts:lookaroun? Sorry...just trying to make some light of this kinda creepy thread we're all involved with here.
BeentoallDParks
Active Member
Two different posters have quoted me saying that the ashes wouldn't have necessarily been clumpy. Excuse me? Who cares? What difference does it make? POTC is not an open stream or river. It's a man-made, closed environment. Dumping human ashes into it is not what it was designed for, and some unlucky CM is likely going to have to clean it up, whether they're clumpy or not. Talking about whether the remains might be clumpy implies, to me, that there might be something okay with dumping human remains that are merely powdery. No, not okay! Dumping human cremains into POTC is quite simply a selfish, dimwitted thing to do, no matter what the consistency of the remains happens to be.
We as fans do not own WDW, and we don't have the right to treat its attractions as our personal property.
We as fans do not own WDW, and we don't have the right to treat its attractions as our personal property.
duck_daddy
New Member
I never said it was OK. I simply stated that the mess wouldn't be all that messy! You over react! LISTEN, it is not OK. Don't do it! Drugs are bad! Stay in school! (insert mundane feel good slogan here!)! I'm just saying it isn't a health risk, and that the thousands of people who get on POTC everyday track in more dust, dirt and general nastiness than could possibly be in a couple pinches of Uncle Ernie(pun intended)! It is not all that bad! Just let the dead rest. If you do it, don't dump the whole kit and kaboodle. Just a pinch does the trick! Lastly, don't tell anyone, heh!?!