Remember even the outside of an evidence envelope may have blood traces. Always glove up when collecting and storing blood evidence. 

Using gloves reduces the risk of exposure. For example, double gloving reduces by 50% the risk of exposure if stuck by a needle. 

Bloody clothing: 
If wet, place in a paper bag, then into a box for transporting to the station. At the station, hang or place the clothing on a drying rack until completely air dried. Never use heat (hair dryer, etc.) to dry the blood. 

Dried blood on clothing or fabric: 
Be certain item is completely dry. Place into a paper evidence envelope or bag for storage. Use the correct size container to reduce evidence motion during transporting and storage. 

Dried stains on other types of surfaces: 
Collect as much as possible in a paper trace evidence container, or pillbox or plastic vial. Seal securely. Be sure to keep dry! 

Blood samples from suspect, victim or crime scene:
Often used for DNA testing comparisons, it is important to use only sterile test tubes with no preservatives and no other additives. Once sample has been taken or collected, submit to evidence unit for refrigeration as soon as possible. 

Never freeze liquid blood samples. Refrigeration is the appropriate method of storage. Freezing may cause the blood to expand and break the glass vial. 

Blood should be tested as soon as possible. If shipping is required for testing use Styrofoam or other padding to protect glass vials from breaking. Make certain that all samples (dried or liquid) are securely packaged and protected for shipping. 

Hazardous warnings should be placed on the outside of the package. A small label that states "Blood Precautions" is sufficient. Some agencies use hazardous materials symbols others simply use a red felt marker to write "Blood" on the envelope. 

Complete chain of custody forms. No job is done until the paperwork is complete. Make it a habit to complete all forms at the time of evidence collection or when logging in property. These forms often become very important during discovery or trial. 

Seal evidence items with evidence seals.