Paranormal Investigation Guidelines

If you have a paranormal group and don't have a set of guidelines to follow, you need to get a protocol set up. Running a paranormal group can be alot of work and making sure members have a set of rules to follow can make it much easier. They don't have to be really strict, just sensible. Also, they can be of major help in keeping the members safe and out of trouble. All investigations should be done in a professional and safe manner but you can still have fun at the same time.

The following is the same protocol my group uses. It's simple but effective.

Safety is first on any investigation. Check the area during daylight hours if possible, for anything that may be a safety hazard. Mark off areas if possible to avoid members going into them.

The second most important rule is never go to any property without permission. If you see No Trespassing or Posted signs, do not ignore them. It's not worth getting into trouble. Our group has a permission form that can be signed by the property owner giving permission to do the investigation. This should be sent or given directly to the owner or person authorized to give permission. It should also be signed by the group leader. Keeping a file of these forms is recommended. When doing public places such as cemeteries, it's a good idea to make sure law enforcement knows you have permission to be there.

All members should have their ID with them. A group membership card is also a good idea to have.

Never go alone... period. It's way too dangerous.

Don't go in bad weather. Just reschedule for another time.

No horseplay while doing an investigation, especially at a clients home or business. You can have fun while investigating, but there is no place for things like pulling pranks on each other.

There should be no smoking or drinking during the invest. A time and area should be set aside for breaks.

Always treat each site with respect, especially cemeteries or battlefields. Do not leave anything behind when you leave, and take nothing away. All locations should be treated like your own or better.

No cologne or perfume should be worn. It can be confused as possible paranormal activity.

EVP work should be done away from other groups of members and all talking except by those members doing the session should be stopped. Remember, don't whisper just speak normally.

If you have EMF meters, use them to do a sweep before you begin to check for things like leaks from power boxes or wires. You can also use a compass in a pinch.

Make sure all equipment is clean ( including lenses) and has fresh batteries.

Report forms should be filled out and turned in.

Rules concerning cameras and taking photos

Take sample shots in daylight if possible. You can see where things are so when you look at nightime shots you won't confuse items like chairs or fence posts as something paranormal.

Hold your breath and do not smoke while taking photos.

Tie hair back so it's out of the way.

Keep fingers out of the way.

Remove or secure all straps on equipment and clothing.

Be aware of where other team members are while taking photos.

Never aim toward any reflective surface.

Do not take photos in bad weather. Rain, fog, heavy wind or snow will interfere with the results.

Avoid lens flare by not aiming toward the sun or any lights.

Make sure you have plenty of extra batteries and film.

If your camera has setting for day and night be sure you use the right one.

A flash is good for about 12 feet so remember that when taking photos.

Check negatives against the photos. What you think is an orb could be a spot of dust.

A word about investigation forms

These are totally optional but I recommend you use them. If nothing else, have each member carry a small notepad and pen to note anything that may happen during the invest. A simple investigation report form can be invaluable. Just a place for the investigators name, time date and location, and a space for writing down what they experienced is all you need. You can also add a place to record the weather conditions and what equipment they used if you like. One more handy form is an equipment checklist. List everything then check items off before you leave. You don't want to get to your location and find you have forgotten something you really need.

Basic Equipment List

These are not mandatory but if you have any of these, put them on your list.

Cameras - 35mm and digital

EMF meter

Temperature sensor

Voice recorders - Digital and tape

Cell phone - Good if you need it but keep the ringer turned off during an investigation.

Notebooks and pens - To make note of anything unusual that may occur.

Flashlight and extra batteries

Small tool kit - You never know when you may need one.

Candles and matches/lighter - In case the flashlight breaks

Map of the area - If you are somewhere you are not familiar with, and if you can get one a map of the actual location.

A watch - Good idea to keep track of time especially if you are on a limit.

Compass - Can be used as an EMF meter if it's all you have.

Optional items...

Baggies or trash bags, rope, measuring tape - Bags for your drink bottles or snack wrappers, rope for marking off areas that may be dangerous or that you want to keep undisturbed and the tape for measuring distances.

I hope you will use some of the ideas in this article to help you have a better running group. Remember, stay legal and safe and enjoy your investigations!