How should evidence be covered at a crime scene to protect it from the weather?

• A. Use sealed plastic bags alone.
• B. Use raincoats, canvas, and boxes to protect from weather.
• C. Leave evidence exposed to air.
• D. Cover with metal lids.

Answer: (B)

Protecting evidence from weather relies on creating a barrier that blocks moisture and environmental exposure while keeping the item stable for later analysis. Using outer coverings like raincoats or canvas provides a durable shield against rain and wind-driven moisture, and placing the protected item in a box adds rigid containment to prevent movement and further exposure. This combination minimizes moisture ingress, condensation, mold growth, and physical damage during handling and transport, helping preserve the sample’s integrity for analysis. Sealed plastic bags alone can trap any moisture already present and promote condensation inside, which can alter or deteriorate evidence. Leaving evidence exposed to air invites rain, humidity, dust, and other contaminants. Relying on metal lids alone may not provide complete coverage or protection for irregularly shaped items and can fail to shield against rain or moisture effectively.