Footprint and Footwear Print Collection and Precautions

Ensuring Accurate Footprint and Footwear Print Collection: Precautions to Follow

In the process of collecting footprints and footwear prints for forensic analysis, certain precautions must be taken to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the evidence.

Here are some key steps to follow:

1. Packaging Easily Removable Articles: If the footprints are on items that can be easily removed, pack them separately before forwarding them for analysis.

2. Temporary Covering: If immediate removal or recording of the prints is not possible, cover them with inverted hollow cardboard boxes or suitable objects to protect them from contamination or damage. 

3. Open Places Precautions: When dealing with footprints in open areas, take adequate precautions to prevent further damage or contamination, especially in adverse weather conditions. 

4. Photography First: Always photograph all prints and impressions before attempting any other preservation method. This photographic record is essential for analysis and comparison. 

5. Photography Tips: When taking photographs:

a. Ensure the camera lens is parallel to the print surface.

b. Include a scale or foot rule alongside the print for size reference.

c. Place a paper with identification details (date, crime number, police station, location, left/right foot, etc.) beside the footprint for documentation.

6. Tracing Footprints: If you need to trace footprints, follow these guidelines:

a. Use a sheet of glass or celluloid, making sure it doesn't touch the impression directly.

b. Do not move the sheet until the tracing is complete to maintain accuracy.

c. Draw lines as thin as possible to capture fine details.

d. Ensure the foot part for tracing, the tip of the pen, and the observer's eye are in a vertical line above the print.

e. Clearly depict the edges of different parts of the footprint with thin continuous lines, and represent faint or doubtful impressions with dotted lines.

These precautions are crucial to preserve the integrity of the collected evidence, ensuring that it remains reliable for forensic analysis and legal proceedings.