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Beginning Ghost Hunting Equipment
By Donna L. Marsh

When you first begin ghost hunting, you don’t need to invest a lot of money in a fancy set of equipment. You can actually begin with what you have on hand or can purchase fairly inexpensively. Wait until you’re sure you’re going to stick with this before you shell out big bucks for specialty meters and things like that.

Your First Kit
   • Notebook and pen/pencil – Taking notes is a must. If you’re committed to doing legitimate research, then you’ll want to do it correctly, and it all begins with good notes.
   • Flashlight – You’ll be in dark places and frequently out at night, so a good, dependable flashlight is an absolute must.
   • Camera – Start with what you have – 110, 35 mm, digital, etc. If you don’t own a camera, use a disposable one you can buy in almost any store. Purchase better equipment as you’re able.
   • Tape Recorder – Once again, start with what you have, and add a good digital recorder as you’re able.
   • Watch – When taking your notes, always record the time of each and every notation and event.
   • Extra Batteries – Paranormal locations and events are known to drain batteries – it’s thought that spirits use the energy to manifest, so always keep a good supply of all batteries you need for your equipment, especially your flashlight.
   • Black Garbage Bags and Powder – You’ll frequently run across stories about children pushing vehicles and things like that. The easiest way to check for phenomena such as this is to spread out a black plastic garbage bag and sprinkling it with powder. Be sure to photograph it before and after. Also, the garbage backs can be used to collect your own trash and any you may find on the site. Remember to always try to leave a site better than you found it.
   • Beverage and Snack – Unless you’re extraordinarily fortunate, you’ll go on numerous hunts, investigations and outings before you see or experience anything, so patience is a must. You could be on site for hours, so at least make yourself as comfortable as possible. Just remember to take all of your trash with you when you leave.

Things to Add as You’re Able
   • Compass – One sign of a spirit presence is the disruption of energy fields. Some investigators use specific meters to detect these disturbances, but a good compass is a simple, inexpensive substitute.
   • Thermometer – Hauntings and spirit activity are generally accompanied by cold spots. A good thermometer will help document temperature fluctuations. As you’re able to afford it, you might consider adding a digital one for ease of use and convenience.
   • Walkie-talkies – These are so handy for a group. You can keep in touch, call for help, etc. However, be sure to respect any and all calls for radio silence.
   • Video Camera – This is not just an additional camera. Film your entire hunt/investigation and you may be surprised at what you missed when you watch the tape later.
   • Tripod

Recommended
   • Cell Phone
   • Emergency Contact Information
   • First-aid Kit

Advanced Equipment
Other things people use are computers, motion detection equipment and activated cameras, electromagnetic field meters, infrared meters, night vision equipment, audio enhancement equipment, electrostatic generators and more. You’ll add equipment as you learn to use it, find a need for it and can afford it. While it’s great to have in the future, it’s not required to get started and do good, sound research and investigation.

 

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