The recommended Standards and Protocols listed below have been adopted and adapted from various paranormal research groups.

• Single individual investigations are not advised under any circumstances - the buddy system should always be in place.  Know where your buddy is at all times.                                                           
• A visual survey of  an area  in the daylight is advised before an after nightfall visit.  Always be aware of your surroundings  for safety reasons                                                                                
• Be considerate and respectful other team members. Any issues that arise, notify team leader immediately.                                                                    
• Respect posted property, ask permission and do not trespass. Be sure you and your team have permission to be on site.  Respect all No Trespassing notices posted and do not violate secured areas.                                                                
• Be sure to have proper identification on you at all times.                                                             
• No Smoking during an investigation.  Agree beforehand on times and designated areas for smoking.
  
  No Alcohol or drugs before or during an investigation and/or hunt.
• No fragrances or  scented products should be used on your person before and during an investigation.                      
• No Ouija boards or séances during or after an investigation if on site. This suggest you avoid the scientific approach.                          
• No horseplay will be tolerated during an investigation  The team is expected to conduct themselves in a professional and courteous manner. 
• Always conduct your investigations in a professional, courteous manner.  Littering and vandalism will not be tolerated                        
• Continually note or log of any events that may take place during an investigation. (feelings, sounds, sightings, etc.) Make sure you wear a watch to note the times when and if activity takes place.  Compare notes after the investigation has taken place.                                                                               
• Only use fresh, quality tapes for audio and video.  Re-using a tape is not admissible for documentation or consideration.                              
• Do not take photographs during adverse weather conditions.                                                      
• Never take photos in weather conditions such as rain, snow, fog, hail or during high winds or dusty conditions. These  conditions will produce misleading and/or false anomalies in your photos.
• Do not take photos while walking on dusty roads or from moving vehicles.                  
• Remove all dust, spots, fingerprints from camera lens.                                                            
• Remove or secure any camera straps so it does not hang loose.                                                     
• Avoid taking photos of a place with a light source or direct sunlight. Photographs and video through a window or of a reflective surface is not recommended.                                                          
• Call flash just before taking your photo to avoid multiple flashes that might create lens flare.                                                                                      
• Keep fingers away from the lens of the camera.                                                                              
• Keep long hair secured and away from the lens of the camera.                                                 
• Avoid shooting when insects and/or airborne particles are floating near camera.
• Be aware of visible breath in cold weather.  Blow out, then let the vapor dissipate before snapping the shot.                                 
• Most flashes are only good for 9-12 feet from camera so focus on that range.                                
• Allow yourself to become familiar with a location before beginning any documentation begins.                                                                                            
• When audio recording is taking place, avoid speaking softly or whispering.  Speak clearly and loud.  Keep notes either verbally for audio or written notes, while recording.  Include any sounds that might be recorded and be in question when reviewing audio.                                                     
• A supply of fresh batteries for your equipment and flashlights is critical.                     
• Positive Mental Attitude is very important for all investigations.                                                
• Our personal belief is to ask the spirits permission to take their photo and thank them before leaving an investigation.  This is done as an act of respect and it has been known to produce great results.                                                           
• Skepticism is necessary, but negative attitudes before, during and/or after investigations are distracting and non-productive.                      
• Verify weather, lunar and geomagnetic conditions before and after conducing investigations for best results.                                                           
• Notify film processors by a note or talk to the lab technician  that  each  frame is to be printed. 
  
• Compare photographs to the  negatives for verification of any suspected anomalies.

GHG requests that all data collected and reports from an investigation be submitted to the Team Leader within a week of the date on which the investigation was conducted. Digital photos, 35mm photos, video and audio should be submitted at the same time. 

Disclaimer

The founders and/or members of the GHG Ghost Hunters  are not liable for any physical, mental, or emotional distress or injuries that might occur to researchers or persons requesting an investigation either before, during, or after an investigation.