A cemetery is such a unique place. It’s part of everyday’s scenery yet it’s not part of everyday’s life. However, this doesn’t mean that we diminish this place’s value by overlooking its importance.
It’s considered the final resting place for our beloved departed in this planet. That’s why it shouldn’t come as a surprise that we are to live by certain rules whenever we visit one or do an activity within its grounds.
Below is a simple yet essential cemetery etiquette we believe everyone should live by. From shooting in a film in the area to conducting monthly visits to our departed, keep in mind the following cemetery rules.
- Check the rules of the cemetery
Each cemetery in the country has its own sets of rules and guidelines. Others don’t allow planted flora or anything that’s affixed directly to the headstone. Some prohibit leaving personal items behind or have certain operating hours. The same goes with shooting a movie or conducting photography sessions. Be sure to ask the cemetery’s permission before doing anything.
Whichever cemetery you intend to visit, it’s best to check back with the place before anything else. This will make your trip solemn, peaceful and convenient.
- Do not damage headstones
This should go without saying. Sadly, many headstones are continuously vandalized throughout cities. That’s why it pays to remind everyone who visits a cemetery should and always give the highest respect to the headstones.
It may simply be a representation of the departed. However, many families have spent a lot to ensure that the headstone is beyond presentable and appealing. Moreover, some families who never recovered the bodies of their loved ones only have that headstone to remind them of the person. Should accidents happen, be sure to report it to the cemetery staff right away and be ready to deal with any damages.
- Don’t take anything from the cemetery
Each headstone is valuable to someone. This means whatever families or friends leave behind (flowers, picture frames, personal memento), it’s to show that this person terribly misses the departed one. This means that whatever they left behind is intended for the loved one who has passed on.
That being said, one should never take anything from the cemetery. It’s simply not right and disrespectful to rob anything. Grave robbing is yet another heinous yet common crime that happens throughout the world. Should you notice anyone doing this, it’s best to report them to authorities as soon as possible.
- Leash your dogs
Many cemeteries are open to dogs. However, this doesn’t mean you can let your furry friend run free in the open grounds, ready to defecate anywhere it feels like doing so.
Remember you are in a tranquil, peaceful and clean place. You should always keep your dog in a leash. It also prevents them from disrupting any ongoing services within the area. This goes without saying that you must also clean up after your dogs.
- Keep the children in check
The cemetery is not a place for games. Just like you would with your pets, it’s best to keep the children in check. Don’t let them run around, step on gravestones or play games in the area.
Often, children don’t fully understand yet what it means to be a cemetery. This could also be a good time to teach them a thing or two about paying their respects. This is a great practice for them to learn at an early age, one that they could carry as they grow older.
- Respect gates and fences
Certain gravesites have gates or fences for plenty of reasons. Whatever the reason behind that is, all visitors or passers-by should respect these boundaries.
Never try and attempt to climb over it. Not only is it disrespectful to the dead and their loved ones. It could also cause serious incidents.
- Drive appropriately
Tons of cemeteries are large enough to allow cars to come in. If you intend to drive one, be sure to keep in mind that driving appropriately is one of the best practices.
Follow the road and never drive over the grass. You should also remember to keep your windows up if you’re listening to music. Furthermore, driving slow and following traffic signs are advisable. Remember, majority of the people are upset in a cemetery. They pay not be paying full attention as to where they’re going.
- Be sympathetic
You are in a place of respect, peace and tranquility. The last thing you want is to disrupt the quietude by being loud and distasteful. In every effort, try to be as sympathetic as possible.