| Maniquin hanging out of the window at The Red Garter Inn- Williams, Arizona. |
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| The Arizona Paranormal Research Society |
| Basic Necessities of the Investigator |
| Common Sense: Use common sense. One of the most important tools an investigator can have is common sense, which is sound practical judgment derived from experience rather than study. The degree or level of common sense one has may determine the quality of the initial investigation. It must apply to all protocols as well as to the safety of all investigators. Basic Personal Investigation Equipment: This is where desire, affordability and common sense determine what type of equipment to own/purchase. The basic minimal list of necessary equipment for any investigator to own and know how to operate completely is a still image camera (digital or film), an audio recorder, (digital or analog), a thermometer, (infrared or ambient), an EMF meter, a flashlight, all necessities for equipment actuation, a personal first aid kit, a simple note book and a time piece. There are many facets of personal equipment, either desired or thought of to be a necessity. They should be researched to determine afford ability and which types to obtain. Environmental meters that indicate various changes in any areas should be researched to determine which one is right for you, as there are many different types to consider. Any accessories desired for your personal equipment depends on your personal preference, afford ability and will vary from investigator to investigator. If computer programs are utilized for analysis, then equipment should be capable of downloading its contents into a computer for the analysis process. Be prepared and know the total operation of your equipment to avoid any second thoughts of your ability. Dedication and Responsibility: Show dedication and responsibility to the team. Be prepared to offer your assistance in any areas where it may be needed. Ask questions in order to completely understand all investigation protocols and adhere to them. You are responsible for all of your actions throughout any investigation as well as anything you may require (supplies etc). Even though all expenditures are out of pocket which can get quite expensive at times, investigators may be asked to travel long distances and are responsible for their transportation abilities, whether it is from a personal vehicle or carpooling. Make any necessary arrangements prior to the investigation. You are responsible for all personal financial portions of paranormal research which varies from investigation to investigation. Remember, in helping those in need, it's not really ethical for any credible paranormal investigation group to charge clients for its services or time. Attitude and Honesty: You may be in the paranormal research field for personal reasons or curiosity but regardless, you must maintain a mature attitude and be honest in the gathering and analysis process of any evidence obtained from all investigations. Any fear you may have about the paranormal will have to be controlled. If you are investigating haunted areas or buildings frequently, chances are, you will eventually run into actual paranormal activity. Remain calm and have an open mind and realize that not all strange things occurring or captured is considered paranormal evidence and may have a logical explanation. Attitude and honesty are items that are considered heavily in the presentation of obtained evidence. Be honest to yourself as well as those around you. There are lighter moments at an investigation and there are times for seriousness. Know how and when to apply yourself and act accordingly. Communication: Communication is a very important part of investigating. There may be emergency situations where contact with another team member(s) is imperative to the investigation and safety of investigators. Simple 2-way radios work well in investigative situations. Keeping in contact and knowing where other investigators are can benefit everyone. Knowing how and when to use them accordingly with respect to the investigation process must be considered. Safety: Team leaders will respect the safety of all members always. No member will be asked to enter an unsafe situation where safety may be jeopardized. When investigating, be aware of your surroundings and potential hazards to avoid anything that may pose a safety risk to you or anyone else. Respect and watch out for each other. On investigations, we are liable for our own selves so keep that in mind. A first aid kit should be on hand and readily accessible for any minor and superficial injuries that may inadvertently occur. Patience: Have patience during investigations. There is time required for a thorough investigation and activity doesn’t happen on cue. Take your time, focus and follow through correctly as you advance through the investigation as well as evidence analysis, Thoroughness: Be thorough in everything that you do while investigating. Take notes with established time lines, any personal experiences and any unusual investigator, or area sounds that might interfere with accurate analysis. Data Collection-Investigation Reports: Follow all investigation, equipment and investigator protocols to insure that all data collected can be submitted accurately as possible evidence. Investigation reports from each investigator are very important for evidence validation and compilation of information pertaining to the investigation. A time line of general impressions, presumed paranormal activity and personal experiences of each investigator etc, is valuable information for the final investigation report. This is what it all boils down to, so be as thorough as possible Professionalism: Be Professional at all times. You are representatives of T.Az.P.R.S.. Be kind and courteous to all that are present. Show respect to the client(s), their home, property, and to each other. No Drama: There is no room for drama, immaturity nor anything that would pertain to it. Drama between investigators, on or off location, will not be tolerated. If at any point a problem between investigators develops, do not attempt to haggle/argue back and forth on the spot. There is a time and place for everything and during an investigation with a client present is not the time or place. At one of the predetermined break intervals, you can advise the lead investigator of the problem and he/she will address it from there. Trust: Trust is very important, not only for team members, but for the client as well. For team members, trusting each other is very important for safety reasons. If everybody keeps an eye out for each other then the safety risks are lowered for all. For clients, trust can assure a more thorough untainted investigation. The team trusts the client to give truthful information about suspected paranormal activity in order to properly prepare for the investigation and the client should trust the team for honesty, safety and proper investigative techniques. (subject to future updates) © Copyright 2006-2009 "The Arizona Paranormal Research Society" |
| "The Arizona Paranormal Society" (T.Az.P.S.) and/or "The Arizona Paranormal Research Society" (T.Az.P.R.S.) name and all things contained within this site are the property of "The Arizona Paranormal Society". Reproduction or unauthorized use of any material without expressed written consent is a violation of the copyright laws and is strictly prohibited. © 2006-2010 "The Arizona Paranormal Society" |
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