Any sighting can appear to be quite frightening at the time as a persons natural fight or flight response begins to kick in. Another factor to take into consideration is Facilitation. This is where the eyes will try to rapidly take in as much information as possible and create an image. Cognitive research has shown that the human form is the most common image people will identify with. So when you have experienced something, if possible try and take stock of the time and location of where you are. Look for visual clues and landmarks. Was there something in the room or location that you can use a visual reference point? If possible try and remember the environmental conditions you were in.Most importantly, write down the details of your experience at the earliest opportunity as time will embelish the finer details of the experience.

Before any investigation can begin, the sighting must be thoroughly researched first. If the sighting is of an aerial phenomenon, then the immediate areas to look at would be flight paths, weather conditions at the time and whether the location of the sighting is a known ‘hot spot’. For ground-based sightings, then similar rules apply. What were the conditions at the time of the sighting, are there any known power line running near the sighting? Does the location have a known history to it? We will also need to know the history of the person who experienced the sighting. It is important to gather as much information as possible before attempting any form of investigation.

Investigations are the most exciting part of any paranormal experience, however they are also the area most fraught with danger. Before any investigation it is vital that a safety assessment is undertaken for the protection of all those involved. You will also need to ensure you have the appropriate permissions before you begin. You will need to benchmark and take initial ground readings so you understand what the natural lay of the location is. When you start investigating you must treat the location with respect and look to take empirical evidence as you go along. When in groups often people feed off each others emotions which can skew your results, remember to try and stay as objective as possible and don’t make snap judgements. Try to record as much information as possible so that when you leave the location, any conclusions you make, you will have the emperical evidence to support it.