When collecting evidence containing ignitable fluids, what is the best practice for sealing the sample?

When dealing with evidence that contains ignitable fluids, it is crucial to ensure that the container is tightly sealed. This practice is important for several reasons.

Firstly, a tightly sealed container prevents the evaporation of the volatile substances present in the ignitable fluids. These fluids can quickly evaporate under open or loosely sealed conditions, potentially compromising the integrity and the analytical value of the evidence. By sealing the container effectively, the evidence can be preserved in its original state for later examination and analysis.

Secondly, a tight seal helps protect the sample from contamination by external elements such as dust, moisture, and other chemicals that may alter the sample's characteristics or interfere with forensic analysis.

In contrast, using a loose cap, leaving the container open, or using non-opaque materials may lead to the degradation of the evidence, making it less reliable for investigation and prosecution purposes. Thus, sealing the sample tightly is the best practice when collecting evidence containing ignitable fluids.