When searching for indisputable proof of the paranormal, it's important to follow certain procedures in collecting the data. The following guideline aims to do just that.
Coming back with hard proof of a haunting or other supernatural event is the holy grail for paranormal investigators. But if a ghost or entity puts in its appearance and someone forgot to put batteries in the equipment, there's not going to be any evidence to produce.
The best way to avoid this is by having a good checklist to go over beforehand. Approach the investigation as scientifically as possible. It's easy to get swept up in the excitement of the hunt, but it will be more rewarding if everything is done by the book and hard evidence is collected.
Going Over the Basics
- Ensure that all devices are undamaged, properly operating, and have fully charged batteries.
- Pack spare batteries.
- Clean camera lenses.
- Make sure there is film or memory cards in all cameras.
- Have a pen and pencil for note taking. Don't rely on PDAs in case of a malfunction or battery drain.
- Carry a watch for noting times of occurrences and specific details.
- Use walkie-talkies to keep in touch with other team members.
- Bring a flashlight. Again, check the batteries.
- Have a first-aid kit on hand for emergencies.
Before Heading Out
- Note weather details such as temperature, humidity, barometric pressure, and wind direction & speed.
- Note solar and geomagnetic activity. Studies have shown that both have an effect on the earth's own magnetic field.
- If possible, research geological information about the location. There is speculation that areas high in magnetism can trigger psychic and paranormal experiences.
- Note the lunar phase. Lunar phases also effect the earth's magnetic field.
On-site Inspection
- Give the outside of the house a thorough once-over. Note any bushes or tree limbs that have contact with the house and could cause banging or scraping noises. Look for visibly loose boards, siding, shingles, rain gutters, or shutters.
- While outside, stand in several different locations and observe if there are any sound amplification points. House angles, trees, and terrain changes can effect how sound travels.
- Indoors, check all windows and doors for drafts. Don't forget to check attic and basement access points.
- Rooms containing fireplaces should also be examined closely. Is the flue open or closed? Are there any animals nesting in the chimney that may be causing unexplained noises?
The Investigation
- Safety first. If a structure or area looks dangerous, avoid it. Don't climb rickety ladders, unstable staircases. Don't walk on rotted floorboards or wade into half-flooded basements. Don't touch bare wires. A trip to the hospital can ruin an investigation.
- When placing equipment, make sure it's away from electrical and magnetic sources such as breaker boxes or stereo speakers.
- Try to get double coverage on a room or specific location: two cameras, two audio recording devices, one of each, etc.
- When experiencing something, it's good to expose another investigator to it, but without revealing anything in particular to them. Some people are very susceptible to the power of suggestion and could easily be influenced.
- If something unusual happens that causes an investigator to feel that they should immediately leave an area, NEVER run, as this can lead to more confusion and result in an accident. CALMLY leave the area as quickly and as safely possible.
- Turn off cell phones while conducting an investigation.
- There should be no smoking allowed in or near the investigation area, as smoke can be mistaken for apparitions in photographs or video, and can mask odors associated with the investigation.
For more information, check out Investigating the Paranormal and Debunking the Paranormal.
The copyright of the article Paranormal Investigations in Ghosts & Hauntings is owned by Beverly Hill. Permission to republish Paranormal Investigations in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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