Investigation Standards

The following Standards are necessary to ensure the safety of all Ghost Vigil Investigators and that their findings are of the highest quality. At all times safety and collecting untainted credible evidence should be our first priorities. Mistakes can always happen during an investigation, but these Standards are designed to reduce the frequency and seriousness of those errors. (download pdf version)

1. Never go alone on an investigation. Use the "buddy system." Do not go to locations alone and do not separate from the group during an investigation without having someone with you. Teaming up with someone will increase your safety, and also provide a witness to any evidence you gather or experiences you encounter.

2. Ghost Vigil members will always be prepared for investigations, by carrying proper ID, checking their batteries and film, and carrying spares of both batteries and film. Fresh audio tapes and external microphones are required during EVP work. Fresh video tapes are required for any video recordings.

3. Ghost Vigil members will understand and be familiar with their equipment prior to going on an investigation. Once there, base readings will be taken with the EMF meters and other sensors to avoid false postitives during the investigation.

4. Members must ensure that all dust, spots, and fingerprints are removed from camera lens before and during investigations. Camera straps should be removed and long hair should be pulled back to prevent obstructions in front of the lens. Fingers should be kept back from the lens and flash. In cold weather, always be aware of or hold your breath while taking the photo so you won't produce false "ecto" photos or other false anomalies.

5. Members should always refrain from taking photographs outside during bad weather. Do not take photos during rain, any type of storms, mist, fog, snow, heavy winds, or dust. If a dirt or gravel road has been disturbed, members should wait at least 30 minutes before attempting to take photos. Dust stirred up from a road can take a long time to settle back down.

6. Members should refrain from taking photographs directly into any light source or reflective surface such as glass or a mirror. This can cause light refractions in the camera lens, and results in photo anomalies that can be mistaken as paranormal in nature.

7. Ghost Vigil members will speak clearly and at a controlled volume during investigations. At no time during an investigation should any group member whisper or make strange noises/voices for any reason. Doing so destroys the credibility of all EVP work done on that investigation.

8. Ghost Vigil members will take notes throughout the investigation, recording their research efforts and any activity they encounter. These notes will describe the efforts and/or activity, along with location within the site and the time of occurrence. Attempting to use just your memory later, rather than notes, is an unprofessional way to work.

9. When encountering paranormal activity first-hand, it is preferable that the investigator say aloud, "I am experiencing something," and then write down what they are experiencing. This prevents the power-of-suggestion from becoming a factor for the other investigators. Other investigators in the area should make notes about what, if anything, they were experiencing at the same time…and their notes can be compared later.

10. Ghost Vigil takes a professional and scientific approach to paranormal investigation. Mediums, Psychics, Ouija Boards, and/or Séances are not to be used unless specifically requested by a distressed home or property owner. If requested, Ghost Vigil will facilitate the location of individuals credible, reputable, and trained in those areas on a consultation basis only.

11. Smoking tobacco in any form during an investigation is prohibited. Smoke can easily lead to photo anomalies that can be mistaken for paranormal activity. Drinking alcohol or using mind-altering substances is also strictly forbidden.

12. No Perfumes, cologne or any other scented products may be used on your person before and during an investigation. This is to rule out any unusual scents that may be encountered during the investigation.

13. When going over evidence following an investigation, members should always check the film negatives for confirmation of objects in pictures. Use a magnifying glass and go over any film with potential anomalies in it.

Ghost Vigil Rules

The following Rules ensure the smooth operation of Ghost Vigil Investigations. They are focused on the actual conduct of our investigators. (download pdf version)

1. Ghost Vigil members will make every effort to follow each of the current Investigation Standards as listed on the Ghost Vigil website. These Standards exist to protect our members safety and the credibility of the evidence the group gathers during investigations.

2. Ghost Vigil members will always obtain permission from the appropriate property owner or trustee to investigate a site before entering anyone’s property. Always. Ghost Vigil members will never trespass. Period.

3. At all times during investigations, and anytime Ghost Vigil members are representing the group, members must maintain a professional attitude and demeanor. Our goal should be an attitude of reverence and respect.

4. Ghost Vigil members will be on time to investigations. Being late to an investigation is unexcusable, as it reflects on the group in the eyes of the property owner or trustee giving us permission to investigate at the site, or in the eyes of the client who has asked us for assistance at their home or business.

5. Ghost Vigil membership should not grow to more than 10 active investigators. Active investigators have priority over reserve investigators when choosing who will go on investigations with a limited number of spots available. Active investigator status is reserved for those Ghost Vigil members who are: