East Coast Transcommunication Organization

Frequently Asked Questions Archive

Q.How long does a ghost hunt take?

A: A ghost hunt can be as long or as short as you want it to be. In our case it takes about 35 minutes for equipment set-up and then another 20-25 for break-down. We usually conduct our hunt for at least a good 3 hours. We like to be as thorough as possible. At places where there is a lot of activity and energy we could spend 6 or more hours there like we did at the Rindge Historical Society. There is no guideline to how long it should take, it all depends on the surrounding conditions. Thanks for the question!

-Answered by Audra on 10/04/07

Q.How do you use dowsing rods?

A:When using Dowsing Rods, also known as L-Rods hold the Dowsing Rods along your body bent at 90 degrees, palms facing each other like if you were holding a gun. Your hands should be about body width apart. Try not to tuck or allow your arms or elbows into the side of your body. If the shorter part of the dowsing rods are contained in a sleeve or cover you may hold them as tight as you like, this will not prevent the rods from swing, however this will cause additional tension and may cause you to become tired sooner. Hold the Dowsing Rods loosely so that the longer sections are pointing straight out. There is no wrong or right way to hold your dowsing rods, what every feels the most conformable to you. Stay as relaxed as possible and watch the tips of the rods as you move.This takes patients and practice so don't get frustrated if you get no response when you first start, it will come. Try making your first several practices short as this may become exhausting after a while. But stay positive, keep your mind open and expect that your dowsing will work. Ask direct questions, don't be vague. Remember, you are the dowers and the dowsing rods are an extension of you and you need to become one with the energy you are dowsing for. Hope that helps. If you have any further questions, please just ask.

 -Answered by Tim on 10/12/07

Q. How does EMF work in ghost hunting?

A:Electromagnetic field detectors are very useful tools.These meters detect fluctuations in Electromagnetic fields.EMFs are measured in units called milligauss.EM fields are normally generated by electrical appliances and other items such as computer monitors, cell phones, etc.When you find a unusual reading between 2 to 7 milligauss, it is thought to be unexplainable energy that could be associated with spirit activity.These meters will not always detect a spirit present, but they are another helpful tool in tracking ghosts.

-Answered by Ron on 10/21/07

Q. Which is better, digital or film cameras?

A: Both choices have pros and cons. Digital is quick and easy, especially in the evidence reviewing process. You can download your pictures into your computer as soon as you get home from an investigation, where as with film you'll have to develop them and pay for every developing which can get expensive. A lot of people like film because it's pretty hard evidence ,you having the actual negative and all. With today's computer programs it's a lot easier to have digital pics tampered with. Some people like to use both as validation for the other. In the end both are great for capturing "ghostly" activity. It's really a personal choice! Thanks for the question.

-Answered by Alissa on 10/23/07

Q. What is a DVR system?

A: DVR stands for Digital Video Recorder. This is a surveillance camera system with anywhere from 4 camera channels up to 16. We use 4 infrared bullet cameras. A DVR functions a lot like a VCR, except it uses a hard drive to record as opposed to video tapes. This makes it easier to edit and there is more recording time available. There are many advantages to having a digital video recorder. The image quality is considerably better than a VCR recording. Digital also allows for video archiving and transfer of video data to CD-Rom or CD-RW. This is just another piece of equipment that makes a ghost hunters life a little easier.

-Answered by Wally on 11/6/07

Q. Can you ghost hunt during the day?

A: Yes you can. You often see ghost hunters conducting their investigations in the dark. The reason we do this is to eliminate any chance of light interference on the video cameras and personal equipment. You can investigate really whenever you want. Ghosts and spirits don't run on a certain schedule unless it is a residual haunting. EVPs can be captured at any time of the day as well as pictures. I hope that answers your question!

-Answered by Alissa on 11/11/07