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Articles Things For Safety In Crime Scene Investigations

Things For Safety In Crime Scene Investigations

Principal Author / Publisher:Safetyhow Admin
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By its very nature, a crime scene can be the source of many hazards. Possible risks include sharp objects, firearms, unstable structures or hostile bystanders. Before conducting a proper crime scene investigation, police must ensure the safety of both CSI (crime scene investigation) personnel and civilians. Fortunately, experienced officers using well-defined procedures usually prove adequate in ensuring a professional and disciplined crime scene investigation.



Personnel

The most important factor in establishing a safe crime scene is the personnel who secure and investigate it. The first officer who arrives at a CSI, the first responder, plays a key role. If the offender is present, he must be disarmed and cuffed. If victims have been injured, the first responder must contact medical personnel. Further, she must know how to administer first aid before the ambulance arrives. As additional officers arrive, they will be able to assist the first responder as well as tend to other important safety matters such as securing the CSI perimeter.

Policies and Procedures

Crime scene investigative work should be carried out according to well-defined policies and procedures. Every member of the team should know his role and responsibility. For instance, one officer may oversee the detainment of the perpetrator while another contacts and speaks to witnesses. The most hazardous crime scenes paradoxically involve situations with the greatest number of police. Not only do too many officers at a crime scene create the risk of destroyed evidence but the chaotic atmosphere can keep essential personnel from carrying out their duties.



Protective Clothing

Crimes often happen in dangerous locations. For instance, a "shooting gallery" for heroin addicts may involve entering a condemned building with the presence of HIV-infected blood. A terrorist plot may involve unexploded bombs or dangerous chemicals. While CSI work may be inherently dangerous, protective clothing reduces risk. At minimum, personnel should use gloves and cover exposed portions of their body whenever possible. Of course, appropriate clothing depends upon the situation. For instance, hazmat suits may be needed in the event of a biological threat.

The Perimeter

CSI investigators use police tape to keep outsiders from destroying evidence. Additionally, the perimeter keeps the public from wandering into a dangerous environment. Besides just taping off the scene, personnel may be needed to keep people at a significant distance. Further, they may be needed for crowd control. The death of a friend may stir passions among bystanders and lead to more problems.

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