Draping of Coffin with Canadian Flag

[HERC]

Wasn't sure which forum to put this in so I figured this was as good a place to start as any.

We recently had two paramedics from the British Columbia Ambulance Service die in a tragic mining accident here in BC that claimed four lives.  I had the privilege of working with both these paramedics, one occasionally, and the other almost weekly through Search and Rescue.  I attended the funeral of my friend from SAR yesterday and was puzzled by the fact that his coffin was draped in a Canadian flag.  I don't really have a problem with this as such, but am wondering what the protocol is for the flag draping.  It would have made more sense to me to see our provincial flag on the coffin as the BCAS is a provincial organization.  I have always believed the Canadian flag to be reserved for heads of state, government officials, CF personnel and RCMP.

Can anyone explain the requirements for this, or perhaps post a link to any reference material explaining this?  I have Googled this subject but have not found what I was after.

Thanks in advance,  Shayne

 

[Chimo]

Here is some information. Perhaps contacting the protocol office at the BC legislature would give you a more precise answer.

http://www.canadianheritage.gc.ca/progs/cpsc-ccsp/etiquette/tdm_e.cfm

 

[George Wallace]

Here is another site, but I see they don't cover all the points you wanted, more on Protocol, than who can or is entitled to a 'flag draped' coffin.

http://www.pch.gc.ca/progs/cpsc-ccsp/etiquette/2_e.cfm

 

[HERC]

Thank you to those that posted.  I had looked at that site before posting here.  I think for a straightforward answer I'll ask the superintendant for BCAS for this region.  He is a friend, and it was just now that I thought that he may have an answer or be able to direct me to someone who may.

Thanks again,  Shayne

 

[Chimo]

Pardon me Shayne, my sincere condolences at the lose of  your friends. I was eager to assist in providing an answer to your question, I overlooked your tragic lose. My apologises. 

 

[HERC]

No worries Chimo.  Thanks for the condolence wishes.  I came not looking for sympathy but looking for an answer to a question.

It's been a tough couple of weeks here.  But all first responders are one big family, and we're able to get through this with each other's help.  One more big memorial to get through and then it will, to a certain extent, be behind us.

Cheers,  Shayne