Putting Together an Evidence Kit

by Christine Bruun

Recently I posted an article on Processing an evidence scene for the lay person.  I also have listed electronic and non electronic items that are important tools to have in the field.

We are beginning to gather those items and putting them into a "ready kit" that will stay in our vehicle at all times. We want to share our experience with you as we gather them together and provide an evaluation of each items and its operation.

The first item ...

...We have chosen to put in our pack is  latex gloves.  We bought a box a couple of  years ago at Sams Club.  I bought them in a pack of 100, so they should last a lifetime!   For me, these are a crucial item to have in the kit.  It prevents evidence contamination.

The Second item...

... It almost had to be a gadget, because Jim is a gadget person...  We chose a laser pointer because of its relatively inexpensive price and its small size.  We have listed four laser pointers available in our store, or you can check around for a bargain. 

We decided to check around and see what was available out there.  We found a small key ring type laser pointer at a local flea market for around $4.00.  It is very tiny, has several cute changeable heads that show cutesy pictures.  We tried one out at the market and found that only one head, the basic pointer one, without all the fancy doo dads, was the one that worked the best.  It provided adequate penetration of a locale and would work nicely in the field for those who don't have to have the latest SCI-FI type of equipment.  They can be hung on a belt loop or on a chain on a belt loop for easy access. 

After trying it out in our own back yard, which is wooded, we were surprised at its ability.  It will definitely be added to the kit.  In fact, we now have two of them, one for each of us as a cost of only $8.00. 

Even though we have listed several models from our own store, we urge you to check around to find the right price for the right piece of equipment.  Each has its own qualities and benefits as well as drawbacks.    There are all kinds out there.  You just have to research and make the best choice for your situation.

The third item....

...First Aid/emergency Kit - We have already started one which we carry in our car, though it needs to be filled and updated.  We haven't had to use it except for a paper cut or a hangnail and such.  I am afraid we have let it sit unattended for about five years.  It is time to go through it and discard those items that are no longer viable and replace them with new items. For our First Aid/emergency Kit we use a  fishing tackle box in a red color, (which makes it easy to see), for those small items and medical needs.  We have created a list of items you may want to include in a first aid/emergency kit.  We decided that it was important to be prepared for anything, especially if we would be doing field work at the site.  

The fourth item...

... 33 gallon steel sak garbage bags--the thicker the better! You never know when you will need them.  They can be used as tents in an emergency.  They can be used to cover a track to preserve it until you can cast it. They can carry all sorts of equipment during inclement weather. 

The fifth item... (previously we reported using ziploc bags.  We have since found this information to be in error.  The following information is the correction.)

...Paper bags are used for gathering evidence.  Plastic bags degrade and destroy evidence.  Grocery bags are used for the collection of scientific material.  Use a permanent marker to label the evidence bag once the item is collected.....

The Sixth item...

...Duct Tape!  Have Duct Tape will travel.  The use is obvious and crucial.  There is nothing Duct Tape can't do...according to the "Duct Tape Guys".

...this page is in the process of being created.  It will be an ongoing thing which we will add to as we go.

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