Each team should have 5 critical members.
Lead
Researcher
Science Officer
Security
Medium

 

1. The Lead heads that group during the field research, preliminary or investigation. The Lead is also in charge of all paperwork and filing reports.
2. The Researcher Studies history and geological information about the area.
3. The Science Officer is in charge of what tools are needed and who will run those tools during the preliminary or investigation.
4. Security holds the position of first aid and safety of the other members as well as gathering data.
5. The Medium is generally self explanatory. The Medium is also expected to help with operating equipment during preliminaries and investigations.

 

SUGGESTIONS

 

First and foremost should always be safety and security. While most procedures will depend largely on individual sites, we can set up basic procedures that will fit most circumstances. Preferably a team of four (hopefully no less than three and no more than five) persons will conduct the S&S (safety & security) sweep. To accomplish this they will only need the most basic of equipment, a set of two way radios, flashlights, first aid kit, and a camera. The team should consist of at least one person certified in CPR and First Aid, ALL team members should be physically fit, at least one individual knowledgeable in construction and demolition (since many of the sites are going to be abandoned buildings), and one “medium” if available.

The priority of a "Preliminary" is to locate, label, and photograph anything that may pose a physical threat to the investigative team (loose floor boards, missing stairs, unsafe staircases, unsafe floors, broken glass, etc.). Also, they need to make note of ALL entrances and exits from the site, everything in the parameter of the site including safe spots (neighbors, stores, etc,) and danger spots (open wells, steep slopes, etc.), and, essentially, EVERYTHING that may either be a threat or of use! It is important that a 'Home Base' be determined at this time for emergencies and head counts at the end of the investigation. It is also advisable to determine which equipment will be needed for this investigation.

ALL team members are provided a radio and flashlight.

One member, referred to as “team lead” from now on, is assigned the camera.

One member, referred to as “medic” from now on, is assigned the first aid kit (preferably, obviously, the CPR expert).

 

Guidelines

1. Always use your critical faculties or plain common sense.

2. Never go investigating alone. Always have at least one companion.

3. Let someone know where you are going.

4. Continuously do your homework and know what to expect to see if the place has anomalies or natural phenomenon.

5. Always do a preliminary investigation. Go during the day to map out the area and look for dangerous situations.

6. Wear sturdy footwear and include a change of clothing. Always carry a flashlight, even during daytime investigations.

7. Never trespass on private or posted property. Always get permission from the owners/authorities and have them sign release and evidence forms.

8. NO alcohol or drug use before, during or after an investigation. No smoking in investigating areas.

9. Always have your personal ID as well as an official ID.

10. Don't jump right in. Get a feel of the place and let the phenomena come to you.

11. Listen to first-person tales from people you respect. Also listen to Historians, Folklorists, Police and Firemen. They've had enough experience with urban legends to know what's real and what's fiction.

12. Set up a base camp which is not within the area of inspection. But don't make it too far from the investigation area.

13. Remember to check your equipment continually throughout the assignment. Check batteries and tools for operation before, during and after data is compiled.

14. Respect the other investigators. Remain still and if you happen to see a Spirit Manifestation or an Image, do not panic.

15. Let the Spirits or whomever you want to come in contact with know that you mean no harm. When you are finished with the examination area, be respectful and thank everyone for their cooperation.

16. Remember that you may not turn up anything on your investigation. It does not mean the location is not active. This is the reason why follow-up calls and repeat visits are important. If you have managed to build a good relationship with a claimant, then they will not mind hearing from you again. Be sure they are willing to call if anything else happens.

17. DO NOT throw out any evidence, recordings, or findings. Keep everything. Keep a back up report or computer disk of all information and reports. Follow ups are crucial. Send a report to the parties involved if applicable.