Funeral homes across Chatham-Kent are taking precautions during the COVID-19 pandemic to keep people safe.
They are asking mourners to stay home if possible because services will be broadcast online. McKinlay Funeral Home is asking mourners stay home and convey their support at a distance.
"Our team has spent that last number of days re-tooling our approach to caring for the community, given the rapidly changing COVID-19 Pandemic," read a statement on McKinlay Funeral Home's web page. "Life’s unpredictability is more apparent than ever, but COVID-19 cannot erase the need to acknowledge the death of someone we love."
McKinlay said staff will continue to walk with families through their loss, and are available by phone, Facebook messenger or email 24/7, and by scheduled appointment. Families that have concerns surrounding these new temporary measures can direct them to a member of McKinlay Funeral Home.
"Presence is more than simply sitting in a room and being 'there'," said McKinlay.
Alexander and Houle Funeral Home also made changes to protect families, staff, and the public during grieving with the ongoing state of emergency declared by the Ontario government.
"We ask that if you are not feeling well, have a cough or fever or have been traveling outside of Canada, to remain at home," read a statement posted on their website.
The funeral parlour said condolence messages to the family can be left using its website, arrangement conferences can take place over the phone, and electronic signatures can replace original signatures.
"No public gatherings are will be arranged at this time. Visitors who do come are asked to offer condolences and words of comfort instead of a hug or handshake and to be mindful of social distancing practices," they added.
Alexander and Houle said they realize that families still need and deserve support and encourage everyone to talk to people impacted by the loss of a loved one over the phone, by text, Facetime or Skype.
The funeral home added old fashioned written letters to share memories, express feelings, and offer condolences are always appreciated and for those who cannot leave their homes, something as simple as lighting a candle in their loved one’s honour always works.
Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home also has online tributes.
Life Transitions Burial and Cremation Service in Chatham said they continue doing home funerals, home arrangements, online interactions and social media relationship building while providing every aspect of a traditional and non traditional funeral. Owner James McNeil said it has been standard operating procedure since the funeral home opened in 2016.
Conditions will be lifted when the funeral homes get new directions from the Ontario government and the Bereavement Authority of Ontario.
