How to Locate Ghosts

A large number of people maintain that ghosts exist, and some even claim to be able to locate them and track them down. It can be expensive to hire an expert if you want to locate a ghost in your area, and sadly, Peter Venkman and company are no longer on 24-hour call. You can locate ghosts yourself with just a little research and know-how. It can be fun for the right sort of person and may even expand your horizons about the unexplained.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Cameras
• Thermometers
• EVP recorders
• Electromagnetic field meters
• Flashlights
• Writing paper
• Pen or pencil

1. Examine the history of any specific kinds of places that may attract ghosts. Cemeteries and haunted houses are obvious choices, but many theaters claim to have a ghost or two in residence, as do universities, churches and old public buildings such as city halls. You can narrow your search by focusing on such areas if more generalized research isn't turning up anything.
2. Determine the haunting pattern of the ghost in question. This includes areas where it has been known to frequent, the time it tends to appear and the phenomenon which accompanies its manifestation. It will give you an idea of what to look for when you try to locate it.
3. Gather any equipment you might need. While you don't need anything specific to locate a ghost, you may want to bring along cameras to record any phenomena, thermometers to check for unexplained temperature changes, EVP (Electronic Voice Phenomena) recorders, electromagnetic field meters and a few flashlights if you're going to be running around in the dark. Most equipment is available at any camping store, while specific ghost hunting equipment can be purchased at sites such as Ghost Mart and Strange Happenings.org (see Resources below).
4. Arrive at the area around the time when the ghost is likely to appear. Many ghosts appear only at night, though some can manifest in the daytime as well, and certain experts maintain that the "magic hour" at dusk or dawn is the best time to locate ghosts. Specifics will depend on the location and the history of the ghosts you're trying to locate.
5. Show patience. It may take many nights of observation to locate a ghost, and even then, it may manifest as nothing more than an eerie feeling or a sense of being watched. Keep your eyes open and be observant, but don't be surprised if you must wait for some time before you locate your ghost.
6. Keep a diary of your vigil and record everything you see, even if it seems incidental. Some details may appear to be nothing at the time, but add up to a genuine unexplained occurrence. Careful notes will help you pinpoint when and if you have spotted a ghost.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to ask permission if you want to locate a ghost on someone's private property. Homeowners don't like uninvited people trespassing, and even those aware of the ghost in residence may be protective of it and refuse to let you go poking around unless you ask nicely beforehand.