Pacemakers and Defibrillators

A pacemaker/defibrillator must be removed prior to cremation.  

Pacemaker/Defibrillator

A pacemaker/defibrillator must be removed prior to cremation.

Under Ontario legislation, including the Funeral, Burial and Cremation Services Act 2022, and its regulations, a crematorium cannot proceed with a cremation if a pacemaker/defibrillator is present. This requirement is in place to ensure safety throughout the cremation process. 

Why is a pacemaker/defibrillator a risk? 

Pacemaker/defibrillator are battery-powered medical devices. During cremation, the chamber reaches extremely high temperatures. If a pacemaker/defibrillator is not removed, the battery inside the device can rupture or explode when exposed to heat. This creates several risks:

• Damage to the crematorium retort
• Safety risks to crematorium staff
• Interruption of the cremation process

For these reason, the removal of a pacemaker/defibrillator is mandatory before cremation can take place. 

Who can remove a pacemaker/defibrillator?

The removal of a pacemaker/defibrillator must be carried out by a licensed Funeral Director (Class 1) or a qualified medical practitioner.

At Thames Valley Cremation Services Inc., all our Funeral Directors are licensed Class 1 in the province of Ontario.

This procedure is completed with care, dignity and full regulatory compliance. 

Important for families

If your loved one has a pacemaker/defibrillator, please let us know as soon as possible. This ensures the device is safely removed prior to cremation.

At Thames Valley Cremation Services Inc., pacemaker/defibrillator removal is handled as part of our professional care.

Some providers in Ontario charge up to $225.00 for this service.

We take pride in keeping our costs low. Our fee is $75.00 and includes disposal of the device.

At Thames Valley Cremation Services Inc. we are committed to clear, straightforward pricing while maintaining the highest standards of care. 

Thames Valley Cremation Services Inc
Thames Valley Cremation Services Inc
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23 Salvia Court
London, ON, N5Z 4T3
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Thames Valley Cremation Services Inc. offers appointments seven days a week, including statutory holidays. Evening
and last minute appointments are available at no extra cost.

Roberta MacNeil
Funeral Director License - 301985
Transfer Service Operator Class 1 – License # TS1-0014680

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