Cemetery Etiquette You Should Know
If you are planning on visiting the cemetery anytime soon to pay your respects to a lost loved one, there is some basic cemetery etiquette that you need to be aware of. Here are several things that you should not do when visiting the cemetery.
Do Not Visit After Hours
Cemeteries often have their own hours and these hours are posted for a reason. They will usually close the gates after hours so visitors can be respectful to the deceased. The employees of the cemetery will also be relieved of their duties according to schedule.
Do Not Speed Through Driveways
It is just common sense to not speed through the driveways of the cemetery. Always practice caution and follow the speed limit closely. If there is any funeral service or gathering nearby, reduce your driving speed even further to prevent accidents.
Do Not Let Kids Run Wild
Before bringing the little ones to the cemetery, teach them common courtesy and basic manners. Talk to them ahead of time so they can be better prepared before reaching the cemetery. They need to learn about respect for the dead as well as those who are mourning the deceased. If your children are too young to understand, it is best to leave them at home.
Do Not Walk on Graves
Always respect the remains inside the graves even if they do not belong to your family member or friend. By showing proper care and respect for the dead, we can remain civilized and set a good example to others. Never walk on top of graves where people are actually buried. You can walk around the graves and still get close to the headstones. Do not simply trot all over the graves which may also cause damage.
Do Not Lean on Headstones, Grave Markers, or Memorials
It is not respecting the dead when you lean on headstones, grave markers, or any other type of memorial. If you intend to spend some time at the cemetery, bring a little stool or travel chair so you can respectfully sit by the side of the grave.
Do Not Talk to Other Visitors
Do not attempt to talk to the visitors of other graves. If they are the ones to initiate a conversation, by all means, remain friendly and express your condolences for their loss. If the other party does not seem to be interested in a conversation, let them be. Remember that they are also grieving and every individual deals with their loss differently.
Do Not Leave Breakable Items
Breakable items like glass and ceramic will break eventually if they are not set up properly. If you intend to leave something on the deceased’s grave, make sure they are not fragile so that the cemetery workers do not need to put in extra effort to clean up afterward.
Do Not Leave Food or Drinks
If you had brought some food or drinks to the grave, dispose of any uneaten items before leaving the cemetery. This can help to prevent ants and bad odors.
