What statement must accompany a body to a crematory?

• A. A statement from a physician, coroner or medical examiner certifying that such body does not contain a battery or a power cell
• B. A notarized affidavit from the next of kin
• C. A funeral director’s report
• D. A police clearance form

Answer: (A)

Batteries and power cells can explode or cause hazardous conditions in the cremation chamber, so safety requires a specific certification run with the body. In New York State law, a statement from a physician, coroner, or medical examiner certifying that the body does not contain a battery or power cell must accompany the body to the crematory. This directly addresses the potential danger and ensures that cremation can proceed safely and in compliance with regulations. Other documents like affidavits from next of kin, a funeral director’s report, or a police clearance form do not address this safety issue and are not the required accompaniment for cremation.