Equipment used in paranormal investigations:
Identification:
You should always carry personal identification with you at all times.
Electromagnetic Field (EMF) meter:
It was originally designed to locate man-made sources of electric and magnetic radiation and to offer a reading of the relative strength (and direction if you are a skilled and competent operator) of the EM field. Natural, as opposed to man-made, EM fields rarely fluctuate and require a Geomagnetometer (a very expensive gadget ) to measure them properly. When an electrical current travels through the wiring or into an appliance, it produces an electromagnetic field, which consists of the electric field which is always present (even when the appliance is switched off) and the magnetic field which occurs when the power is switched on to the appliance. Common sources for household EM readings include such objects as computer monitors, cell phones, clock radios and televisions. It has been suggested by some that spirits may disrupt the EMF within a location or emit their own EMF although there is no scientific evidence for this. Before using the EMF meter on an investigation, become familiar with how it works. Hold the meter at arm's length and walk around your own home taking initial readings around sources such as lights or electrical outlets. Most units come with a manual describing most household and major appliances and their corresponding electromagnetic reading. When using EMF detection meters it is important to make a series of baseline measurements in order to highlight any unusual readings. A normal range of readings is between 0.1 to 10 mG (milli-Gauss), though some locations may have higher man-made sources. If you are close to domestic appliances the reading can exceed 30mG. Most meters on the market are hand-held and this is not ideal. To use them make sure you stand still. Even moving around can affect the readout slightly and unless you know this you may be incorrectly interpreting your data. In an ideal world you would purchase a tri-axial EMF meter (3-axes) as opposed to the 1-axis variety that flood the market. Both varieties have their uses in investigations since a single-axis meter is generally a better tool for locating the source of an emission. A 3-axes meter, however, can be left static and the data recorded onto its memory or fed directly into a computer; it takes out possible human error. So the next time you're watching a televised ghost investigation and the dial on the EMF meter shoots up, something supernatural has not been detected. It's undoubtedly something natural. If your EMF has an audio signal, you should make sure it has an earphone socket due to the noise they put out, which can be startling and possibly disruptive to your investigation if causing team members to be jumpy.
A Compass:
Most only use a compass when they cannot afford an EMF meter, but a compass is still a good item to have along. A compass does not react the same way an EMF meter does to a false positive. A compass will stay steady. On the other hand, if you are sitting in the middle of a room with your compass and EMF meter and they both start reacting you know that something is disturbing the electromagnetic field around you. In both of those ways the compass is used as a back up device. A ghostly anomaly will usually tilt the needle at least 30 degrees off Magnetic North. Again, be sure to rule out a possible electrical source.
Camera:
A digital camera can be useful in a investigation if used in the proper manner and in the correct lighting conditions. The digital camera should be used mainly for documenting the investigation itself. Please do not use the digital camera to attempt to capture paranormal photographs in low light conditions. It is important to have at least one 35mm camera as well, because for a photo to be authenticated, it must have a negative to check. 400 speed film is the best to use on investigations and make sure to take plenty of rolls. When having the photos developed, be sure to tell the developer that you want all photos developed and returned. Make sure the camera has a flash, but it is best to not have a strap that can get in the way of the lens and be mistaken for an anomily.
Dowsing Rods:
To detect ghostly activity and where ghosts are. They allow spirits to give responses to questions, via movement of the rods.
Ion Meter:
An expensive piece of equipment used to measure the amount of positive and negative ions in the area. Spirits are believed to cause a lot of positive ions because they give off high amounts of electromagnetic discharges.
Motion Sensors:
Good for use in 'locked-off' rooms. You can get freestanding ones very cheaply, usually with their own built in speaker. Try leaving an Infra Red Motion Sensor in an area where there is suspected activity. This will quickly alert you to any movement detected in that area allowing you to get there fast to investigate. Be sure that everyone attanding the investigation knows the location of the sensor to prevent accidental activation. An Infrared Burglar Alarm can be used to detect movement and is less expensive.
Night Vision:
An expensive piece of equipment mainly for the professional teams, but very useful given the darkness that you work in on investigations.
Temperature Gauges:
A large part of an investigation is the recording of temperature changes so thermometers are an essential. Any thermometer can be used but there are very good ones which give times of changes in temperature and can even give you the temperature when you are in another room. Use an IR thermometer to record instant changes in air temperature. Also useful are laser thermometers. These give you a surface reading so can be useful if someone experiences a cold spot. Consider a digital thermometer as they keep a memory of the highest and lowest monitored temperatures, most come equipped with alarms and take measurements several times a minute. The alarm feature is especially helpful in letting you know when sudden and drastic changes occur and allows you the convenience to focus your attention elsewhere. A more expensive option for instant temperature measurements are the new infrared laser scanners. A point-and-shoot device that detects temperature differences using infrared technology. A mercury thermometer is useful for measuring changes in air temperature inconsistent with the surroundings.
Flashlights:
The most basic requirement for any investigation. On nearly all investigations you are working in near to pitch black darkness. Not only is it required for navigation during these times but if someone gets nervous about anything, it is useful to be able to have a light source very close. Any flashlight will be fine but free-standing ones are the most useful. It is also important to remember spare batteries as electrical equipment tends to drain very quickly on investigations.
Trigger Objects:
A trigger object can be anything left to tempt a spirit to move it. If possible, something of sentimental value to the spirit is used, but anything can be used (crosses are a favorite). To check if the object has moved, it is generally either placed on a piece of white paper, with a line drawn around in, or in a pile of salt/baby powder, as this will show up any movement. A simple coin is a good trigger object also, as they are lightweight and easy to push. Coins are also easy to trace by pushing down in the center. The value of the coin doesn't really matter (unless there is a specificity to the case) but quarters tend to work well due to their size and being able to easily tell if it moved out of its circle. You can also use an Infra Red Motion Sensor in conjustion with the trigger object, this will alert you to any movement. Try taking photographs of the object before you leave, and then again when you return.
Video Camera:
A good idea can be to 'lock-off' a room for a while and record it on video. Any video camera works fine for this. Obviously the more expensive the camera the better as the better ones have improved night vision capability so can work in darker environments. However, as long as the camera has a spotlight it can still be used. Just like film, take an extra few tapes along to be sure you do not run out.
Voice Recorders:
For picking up EVP's. Digital is best, but if using analogue equipment, use a recording device that has a microphone separate from the case. Microphones that are internal record noise generated from internal motors and wheels. A detached mic will significantly minimize this type of unwanted noise. An external mic (preferably omni directional) gives the best results.
External microphone:
(omni directional) For better sound quality use an external microphone with at least a five foot cable.
Two Way Radios (Walkie Talkies):
If the investigation is split into separate teams, these are an absolute must.
Watches:
There should be at least one person with a watch in each team, for the benefit of notes and if you have arranged to all meet up again at a specific time.
Measuring tape:
Use a measuring tape to record accurate distances relating to room dimensions and paranormal sightings.
Carbon Monoxide Detector:
The very same detector that many houses have begun installing in their homes in the last five years is now starting to be carried around by paranormal investigators. At certain levels CO gas can cause hallucinations, confusion, cause you to see blurry spots and even at times cause the brain to react in ways that may appear to a person as though they are seeing balls of light. There are some places that can have higher levels of CO gas, for example homes with unfinished basements, or heavy smokers in the residence, even space heaters or blocked up chimneys can be the culprit. Because of all of those possibilities ruling out a very natural cause for seemingly paranormal activity can save not only your team from hours of sitting around, but can also potentially help identify a health hazard for your clients.
Notepads and pens:
A lot can happen in a short space of time during and investigation, so everyone should have some way of taking notes. The simplest and best way is a simple notepad and pen. Absolutely everything should be noted and timed during an investigation. The reason for this is that someone may notice a cold spot in a specific area at a certain time but five minutes later someone can notice a normal temperature in the same place. The cold spot then becomes significant. Also, if a particular spot at a specific time is more active, it is best to be able to remember that for future investigations at that location. A good alternative to a note pad is a compact personal recorder to save you valuable time normally spent writing, but still be sure to have a notepad and pen for backup if you lose your power source.
Candles and matches:
These in the event that you lose all power lightening sources. These items also help detect and monitor breezes.
Helium Balloon:
This next item may seem completely out of place on a paranormal investigation but it actually has a few uses. In cases where cold, warm or hot drafts are reported to come "from nowhere" a helium balloon that is anchored to something is a great tool. If you have closed off a room that has reports of this the balloon can be set in that room with the camcorder and any drafts detected will immediately move the balloon. The balloon is also a great tool for checking leaky windows if no air can be felt on an investigators hand. It can be very interesting to watch a balloon "dance" when there is no air movement felt by those around it. A balloon is also light enough for some spirits to be able to move it, so asking if they can knock it around a bit might be worth your time.
Batteries:
Often batteries mysteriously lose their charge at an investigation. We recommend you bring at least one extra set of batteries for each piece of equipment that requires them.
Mobile Phone:
In case of an absolute emergency. Keep them turned off during an investigation.
First Aid Kit:
Just good to have on hand for minor incidents.
*Note:
Many investigators employ the use of high-tech instruments in their research while others choose to employ simple but time tested tehniques. It makes no difference if you choose low-tech or high-tech equipment as long as you use the tools correctly.
*The Investigation: Tips
*How to have a successful paranormal investigation.
The objective of a paranormal investigation is either prove or disprove the validity of reported paranormal phenomina, and if you truly find paranormal activity, to collect the valuble proof of such phenomina. Although paranormal investigations are fun and exciting, they must be approached scientifically. Therefore it is important to start every investigation by checking off on a standard checklist.
If an Individual contacts you to perform an Investigation make sure you Interview the Client Via Phone first then in Person. If the Client allows you to, do an Audio/Video Recording of the Interview. We can never say this enough, be sure to document everything thoroughly
Some things to do in the days leading up to the investigation:
Trespassing.
Before you embark on any investigation, be sure you are not trespassing on private property. Trying to explain to a police officer that you are doing research holds no weight whatsoever. Telling him you are hunting for ghosts will only give him a story to tell his fellow officers. Additionally, the consequences could be more than expected. Fine and/or imprisonment, a criminal record and worse--damage to your organization's reputation--could put you out of commission for a while. Always get permission before entering private property. Either have the owner with you as an escort or have them sign a contract granting permission. Protect yourself--protect your organization--protect other ghost hunters. What you do reflects on us all.
Gather information.
If possible, days before the investigation, research geological and historical information about the location. There is speculation that areas high in magnetism can trigger psychic and paranormal experiences. It helps to know the history in the event you find paranormal activity and therefore can possibly link some of the activity to the locations past.
Survey the area.
It is wise to survey the area in which you will be conducting your investigation. Familiarize yourself with the environment and possible hazards during daylight hours.
On the day of the investigation make sure to first contact the individual who granted you permission to access the site to let them know you havent cancelled and will be there at your scheduled time. If appropriate for the site, also call local Law Enforcement and let them know you will be conducting Research at the location and have written permission.
Some things to do the day of the investigation in preparation:
Below is a checklist of things to do to ensure you are fully prepared for the event.
1.)
Equipment Check: Ensure that all devices are undamaged, properly operating, and have fully charged batteries.
2.)
Pack additional batteries as apparations are known to drain the life from batteries.
3.)
Clean camera lenses.
4.)
Ensure there is film or memory cards in all cameras and take extra memories cards if able.
5.)
Have a pen and pencil for note taking. Don't rely on PDAs in case of a malfunction or battery drain.
6.)
Carry a watch for noting times of occurrences and specific details.
7.)
Bring flashlights with charged batteries and extra batteries.
8.)
Have a first-aid kit on hand for emergencies.
At Onset of investigation before heading out:
1.)
Note weather details such as temperature, humidity, barometric pressure, wind direction and speed.
2.)
Note solar and geomagnetic activity. Studies have shown that both have an effect on the earth's own magnetic field.
3.)
Note the lunar phase. Lunar phases also effect the earth's magnetic field.
Upon arriving at investigation destination:
1.)
Early arrival. Allow yourself some extra time to spend on site, before the investigation. This provides ghosts the chance to familiarize themselves with you.
2.)
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.
3.)
Stand outside in several different locations and observe if there are any sound amplification points. House angles, trees, and terrain changes can effect how sound travels.
4.)
Inside, check all windows and doors for drafts. Don't forget to check attic and basement access points.
5.)
Rooms containing fireplaces should be examined closely. Is the flue open or closed? Are there any animals nesting in the chimney that may be causing unexplained noises?
6.)
Use common sense, 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. Be safe.
7.)
When placing equipment, make sure it's away from electrical and magnetic sources such as breaker boxes or stereo speakers.
8.)
Try to get double coverage on a room or specific location: two cameras, two audio recording devices, one of each, etc.
9.)
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. It is good to carry two way radios on a investigation.
10.)
If something unusual happens that causes an investigator to feel that they should immediately leave an area, leave quietly and calmly, as excitement can lead to more confusion and result in an accident. Exit the area as quickly and as safely possible.
11.)
Turn off cell phones while conducting an investigation.
12.)
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.
13.)
Make sure you leave the location in the same condition as you came into it, always respect the spirits and your Host or Client.
14.)
Make sure if you are investigating a claim for a Client that you do not share an opinion of what you feel is going on, first making sure you have all your hard evidence in hand before the revealing. Also try to have a resolution for the client as well, if they are being disturbed by the paranormal acitvity.
15.)
Most importantly take your work seriously, yet still be able to have a good time.
