The supernatural raises many questions and their sirens’ calls often prompt individuals to seek answers. Damon Keys and Fred Tennant of Outsider Paranormal are seekers. Their interest in the paranormal was sparked by individual experiences each had when younger. In 2011, the cousins investigated Hill View Manor in New Castle and, after their experience there, formed their own investigation team. With a decade of experience behind them, the duo often helps those interested in investigating the paranormal and willingly shares advice.
“The first thing that you should ask yourself is, ‘Why are you doing this?’ What piqued your interest?” Damon says. “Is it spiritual, or did you have an experience? After you have that understanding, you can go deeper with investigation.”
Do your research. Before heading out to a new location, research is imperative. Research the history of the location, using both local resources and digital. Once you’ve completed your research, take time before your investigation to visit the location in the daylight to become aware of any safety issues. Before heading out to the location, get permission to be there. “We often go to the genealogical society [in Waynesburg] for research. They have a great group of ladies that are amazingly helpful,” Fred recommends.
Be prepared. “The biggest thing is preparedness. If you are not prepared, danger can come from many places,” Damon says. Have your equipment ready and bring backups. Basic equipment needed for most investigations includes a flashlight, digital recorder, and camera. Before leaving, make sure that you have everything you will need. Dress appropriately for the weather and location. Keep protection, safety, and survival supplies with you, especially if out in the woods.
Have an open mind. When investigating the paranormal, it’s important to be open to what you encounter. Avoid preconceived notions of what you think will happen – negative or positive – and be involved in the experience. Don’t go in with unrealistic expectations, either. “You need to be open to endless possibilities because you’re investigating the unknown,” Damon says. “Remember that it’s not exactly like what you see on TV.”
Your personal experiences outweigh anything you might capture. “Your eyes and ears are your best equipment,” Fred says. “You have that personal experience, and you know it happened. It doesn’t matter what others might say.”
Remember safety, both physical and spiritual. Safety is one of the biggest things to consider when dealing with the unknown. When investigating, consider the energy you are putting out, and what could happen if it reaches the wrong audience. Unless you are a trained professional, it’s best to avoid activities, such as Ouija board sessions, conjuring, and seances, to summon spirits. “You can get yourself in a lot of trouble if you just go out looking for something,” Damon says. “Be aware of your dangers.”
Don’t investigate while under the influence; this opens yourself up to various dangers and your results can’t be trusted. Use caution while investigating, especially in the dark. Always be aware of your surroundings to prevent accidents. Avoid going on an investigation alone and make sure that at least one person not on your team knows where you will be. “Maintain good communication with your team members if you decide to split up while on a investigation,” Fred suggests.
“And if you have a bad feeling, go with it,” Damon adds. “Trust your instincts.”
Commit resources. “The more time you put into it, the better you’ll be,” the duo agrees. After each investigation, you’ll need to dedicate time to go over the film, recordings, and photos taken during the investigation. Initially, the cost for paranormal investigation can be low, but it can become costly – especially with additional equipment. If you’re willing to commit the time, many pieces of equipment can be built by your team to save money.
Be respectful. When on an investigation, be courteous and talk to everyone – both the living and spiritual – with respect. Don’t yell or provoke things that you don’t understand to encourage more activity. Avoid leaving messes and clean up after yourself.
After each investigation, close out your session. Closing the session helps keep your mind at ease and prevent things from following you from the location.
Ask others. The best thing anyone interested in paranormal investigation can do is to talk to others that do it. Other paranormal investigators can be found online, and most are willing to assist those interested in exploration. Outsider Paranormal is open to working with those interested in investigation.
If you have experienced something that is outside of your comfort, reach out to professionals that can assist, whether it is a more experienced investigator, a religious leader, officials, or mental health help. And remember – paranormal investigation is not for everybody.
“We do it to have fun, but we also do it to help people. That’s our main goal – to help people,” Fred says. “It’s a fun hobby. It gives me something to do.” If you would like to reach out to Outsider Paranormal with questions, visit their Facebook @Outsider Paranormal.