How should soil samples collected from a fire scene be stored?

Soil samples collected from a fire scene should ideally be sealed and frozen to preserve their characteristics and prevent any alteration due to environmental factors. Freezing halts biological and chemical processes that could change the composition of the soil, which is crucial for forensic analysis. By preventing microbial activity and oxidation, the integrity of the sample is maintained, allowing for accurate analysis and examination of potential evidence, such as accelerants or trace materials related to the fire.

Other storage methods, such as using a sealed bag at room temperature or an open container to dry, would not effectively preserve the soil's conditions. Room temperature can lead to degradation or changes in the soil due to moisture evaporation or microbial growth. Similarly, allowing the soil to dry out in an open container risks losing volatile components that are important for forensic investigation. Storing in a glass jar with air exposure similarly allows for potential contamination and deterioration of the sample over time. Therefore, sealing and freezing is the best method to ensure the soil samples remain viable for examination and that the evidence retains its value in forensic contexts.