We at Harman Funeral Homes & Crematory, as many of you, are closely watching the COVID-19, Coronavirus Pandemic.  

We want to let everyone know that we are always here to help our community in any way we can, and that will not change during this uncertain time. With that being said we have received specific guidance from the Pennsylvania Funeral Directors Association (PFDA), in light of the restrictions imposed by both the federal and state governments to limit human interaction for the purpose of limiting the spread of the virus. 

Please be assured if your family experiences a death, we will respond immediately to the place of death, just as we always have, while obeying the current protocols, set in place, by the facility in which the death occurs.

PFDA has set forth the following guidance for us to follow as well:

• When possible funeral or memorial services should be scheduled for after the state quarantine time passes. Currently the Diocese of Scranton, has prohibited all funeral Masses in its churches,  its priests performing services at funeral homes, and closed all Diocesan cemeteries to Saturday burials.
• No public viewings should be held, private family gatherings are acceptable, provided they do not exceed the persons the limit set forth by government health officials, currently no more than 10 persons, non-essential visitors are not permitted inside the building, and essential visitors must wear a facemask.
• No prearrangements should be made unless they are required by an imminent death within the quarantine period.
• At Need arrangements should be made online or via phone. Should in person arrangements be necessary, they should be limited to the absolute smallest number of people necessary.

Be advised that we have protocols in place the cleaning of our facilities, in both the public and professional areas; for internet streaming services of funeral services, that must be held during the quarantine period; and making of arrangements online via our collaboration center, FaceTime, video conferencing or telephone. We have protocols in place for remote signatures on any required documents via electronic signature, or Facsimile

Again, we want to reinforce that we are here for you to assist in any way we can. Please feel free to contact us, via phone, email, FaceBook Messenger, or through our website, with any questions or concerns that may arise. We are still available any time day or night to answer any questions, concerns, or needs you may have.

Sincerely,

All of us at Harman Funeral Homes & Crematory