New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu announced that funeral homes can reopen for public services on Monday, June 15, 2020, at 50 percent capacity. Cremation Society of New Hampshire (CSNH) did not cease operation during the pandemic, but services were limited to fewer than 10 attendees at a time.
“Given what we have seen in other parts of the country, we feel very confident in taking some additional steps forward,” Gov. Sununu said about reopening additional businesses in the state, including funeral homes.
June 15 is also when New Hampshire’s Stay-at-Home Order expires, per Gov. Sununu. CSNH will begin offering expanded services beginning the week of June 15.
“Many families put memorial service plans on hold during the pandemic, and we will work closely with them to give their loved one the dignified farewell the family envisions,” Buddy Phaneuf, President of CSNH, said. “We remain committed to community safety, and will adhere to strict rules related to social distancing for the welfare of our clients and their families and friends.”
CSNH provides:
- Dedicated calling hours for those at a higher risk for infection from COVID 19
- Hand sanitizer available in many locations throughout the building
- The cleaning and disinfecting of public spaces every two hours and between services
- Six-foot social distance labeling on flooring and in public spaces
- A one-way flow through each of the buildings
“We are only allowing one gathering to take place at a time in order for us to be able to keep within the current guidelines for the number of visitors and social distancing requirements,” Buddy Phaneuf said.
CSNH staff members will wear face coverings while in the facilities, per Gov. Sununu’s reopening guidelines. Condolences are encouraged with a six-foot distance between people, and hugging or shaking hands is discouraged.
New Hampshire churches and cemeteries have their own guidelines, based on Gov. Sununu’s reopening plan, as well as their own rules. CSNH will work closely with families so that all rules are clearly defined for services happening in a place of worship or cemetery.
Use this link to ask any questions about the reopening of CSNH.
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