Premature Burial and How It May Be Prevented

A survey of death-counterfeits and measures to prevent accidental interment. The authors compile medical descriptions of trance, catalepsy, and suspended animation; collect documented narrow escapes and probable cases; analyse predisposing conditions and signs of death; discuss funeral formalities, embalming, dissection, certification, and burial customs including cremation and waiting mortuaries; review treatment and resuscitation of the apparently dead, including infants and the drowned; and conclude with practical legal and procedural recommendations, historical appendices, and an extensive bibliography aimed at reducing hasty burials and guiding legislative reform.