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Investigative Protocol: The Key to Quality Investigations

© Dayna Winters

Introduction

Frequently, paranormal activity is not taken seriously. Over the years various medias have depicted ghost research as a game, and less like scientific research. Thus, as paranormal investigators it becomes crucial for us to behave in a professional fashion. In doing so, we lend credence to our research and bandage the wounds of myth carved by popular culture. Ghost investigation is not a game and should be taken seriously. An earnest approach to the study of ghosts can provide us with the most astounding experiences we will encounter.

Most paranormal teams establish standard rules for every investigation. Such rules are created to maintain a level of professionalism, a sense of team dignity, and to prevent undue mishaps while on a location. Despite the fact that extensive protocol can seem overly restrictive, such rules are truly beneficial to both the team and the clients. Likewise, upon first appearances, such rules can seem to curb the level of enjoyment one might have on an investigation, but that is not the case. By following regulated principles and limiting the amount of difficulties that can occur, in the end such rules make investigating both easier and more enjoyable.

Paranormal teams usually establish protocol based on their expectations and their experiences on prior investigations. Thus, many teams may have different protocol. Conversely, there are many basic tenants of ghost investigating that are pretty much standard across the board. Relatively speaking, because such protocol is a basic standard of investigative teams, it can be properly assumed that they are effective standards because they work! If you are an investigator or you are starting your own paranormal team, consider adopting, at minimum, the standards listed below.

Standard Safety

Do a walkthrough: Always do a complete walkthrough of any location you plan to investigate. In doing so, you will familiarize yourself with the territory and will reduce the chance of injury-especially if you are investigating at night or in a dark area. Additionally, the benefit of following such a standard is doubled-by mapping out the site you can then determine where to set up video & audio equipment.

Bring a first aid kit: Having a first aid kit on hand is an absolute must. When investigating the paranormal you never know what might happen.

Investigative Standards:

No Ouija's or Séances: Many teams do not permit the use of the Ouija board. The reason is twofold. First, the boards can be and sometimes are manipulated by whoever is using the board. Thus, scientifically speaking, anything contacted on them is useless. Secondly, many investigators believe that if you do manage to contact something, you don't necessarily know what you might be talking too! Likewise, it is not advised to practice séances while on investigations. Remember, not only are you trying to maintain a level of professionalism, you are also trying to educate your clients about the paranormal.

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