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Standards and Protocols for Field Investigations
These standards and protocols establish a baseline for a proper investigation and assist to eliminate common errors of most beginning investigators. These standards & protocols provide guidelines that ensure professionalism by E.T.P.R.S. members.
General:
No smoking tobacco products during an investigation
No alcohol at any investigation.
No perfume or cologne at an investigation site.
No Ouija boards or séances during or after an investigation.
Always conduct your investigations in a professional manner.
No running or horseplay in cemeteries or historical sites
Show reverence and respect in cemeteries, battlefields, etc.
Positive Mental Attitude is very important for all investigation.
Follow the Lunar cycles for conducting investigations for best results.
Respect posted property, ask permission and do not trespass
Photography:
Do not take photographs during adverse weather conditions.
Remove all dust, spots, and finger prints from camera lens.
Remove or wear the camera strap so it does not hang loose.
Avoid shooting into the Sun or lights for resulting lens flare.
Avoid shooting with flash at reflective or shinny surfaces.
Keep fingers away from the lens of the camera
Keep long hair away from the lens of the camera
Avoid shooting when foreign objects are floating near camera
Compare anomalous prints with negatives if possible for confirmation.
Flash is only good for 9-12 feet from camera so focus on that range.
Ask the spirits of the dead for permission to take their photos.
Say the word “flash” just before taking a photograph. No one wants photos of your flash going off.
Devices:
Always use fresh tapes/discs for any device recordings that use them.
EMF:
Move the meter slowly when holding in hand to avoid contamination.
Set the meter on a hard surface before taking reading whenever possible.
Standards and Protocols for Private Home Investigations
1. Perform a thorough interview for the client.
2. Make sure no vacuuming or other dust-generating procedure has been done recently.
3. Turn out all lights and extinguish candles.
4. Be respectful of the client’s wishes as to where you are permitted on the property.
5. Take only the necessary number of investigators required based on the size of the location.
6. Get written permission before publishing photos of the site. Do not publish information that reveals exact location to protect client's privacy.
7. Research the location prior to investigation to get history of the property whenever possible.
8. Do not wear clothing that may be objectionable to the client.
9. Conduct the investigation in a professional manner.
10. Educate the client about what they can do to alleviate any natural phenomena that might be mistaken for paranormal activity.
11. Be prepared to answer any questions the client may have.
12. Follow up with the client afterwards and let them know your findings.
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