Investigation Guidelines

by

Stephen Weidner

AAPI

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.