Is Your House Haunted?

Tips for anyone living in

-- or investigating --
a house that might be haunted

by Fiona Broome

Portsmouth, New Hampshire, USA

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Copyright 2010 by New Forest Books™ for Fiona Broome. Is Your
House Haunted? by Fiona Broome is licensed under the Creative
Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported
License. To view a copy of this license, visit
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/3.0/ or send a letter to
Creative Commons, 171 Second Street, Suite 300, San Francisco,
California, 94105, USA.. See Fiona’s other work at
FionaBroome.com

Any trademarks, service marks, or product names are

assumed the property of their respective owners, and are used
only for general reference.

Fiona Broome has no association with the Ghost Hunters™ TV

series. In this book, “ghost hunters” refers generally to
paranormal researchers who “hunt” for evidence of ghosts.

DISCLAIMER

This information in book is provided only to inform and

entertain. Information is based on personal experience and
anecdotal evidence, and should not replace legal, medical,
religious or other professional advice. Readers assume full
responsibility for use of the information in this book. If you are
concerned about your safety, get help immediately. Before
visiting any "haunted" site, verify the location, accessibility, and
safety.

Print edition ISBN: 1456450360 / ISBN-13: 978-1456450366

New Forest Books™
1500A Lafayette Road, #143 - Portsmouth, NH 03801 USA
www.NewForestBooks.com

3
Introduction to the digital edition

Let’s start a revolution in paranormal research.

Let’s stop using ghost-related TV shows as teaching
tools and start viewing them as what they are:
Entertainment.

Like you, I’ve seen self-styled ghost hunting teams

do exactly what they’ve seen on TV:

1. They ask a few questions of the site owner, and

maybe get a tour.

2. They set up their equipment.

3. They walk around, attempt to communicate with

the spirits, and wait for something to happen.

4. After a few hours, they leave and (maybe)

evaluate the evidence.

5. They report to the site owner with the evidence

they think is convincing.

That may be great TV, but it’s not real paranormal

research.

Let’s stop thinking that the site owner is an expert

on ghosts. The owner may be an expert on what’s
going on at the site, but the reason for calling in a
research team (or reading this book) is: He or she
isn’t sure why the building seems haunted.

Your job is to find out why. That starts by ruling out

normal (if odd) explanations for the phenomena.
That’s what this book explains, step by step.
Though it’s written to help homeowners, it’s equally
(or more) useful for ghost researchers.

In this book, I show you what goes on -- or should

go on -- before the TV crew arrives to film a ghost-
related show.

This is where you’ll start and it will earn you respect

in your community. If you say, “It looks like the
house is haunted,” people will believe you.

As Sherlock Holmes said, “It is a capital mistake to

theorize before you have all the evidence. It biases
the judgment.”

Study the evidence. Perhaps the closet door seems

to close itself. First, you’ll see if it’s hung correctly.
Then, you’ll look for drafts, and so on. It’s tedious
work. It’s also important.

Holmes said, “Eliminate all other factors, and the

one which remains must be the truth.”

That’s what paranormal researchers do: We first

eliminate all normal factors before more closely
studying the paranormal possibilities.

If every ghost hunting team follows the steps in this

book before setting up the equipment they’ve seen
on TV, we can make huge progress in this field.
We’ll know what’s haunted and what isn’t, and
maybe we’ll find more answers, too.

Welcome to the revolution!

Fiona Broome, founder, HollowHill.com

Table of Contents
Is Your House Haunted? 15
1. Keep a diary 17
2. Contact a handyman 21
3. Is it EMF? 23
4. Check floors & stairs 25
5. Mold, mildew & allergies 27
6. Animal noises 29
7. Plumbing, heating & a/c 31
8. Drafts, rumbles, water 33
9. Felt trapped in your bed? 35
10. Still no answer? 37

Coping with a Haunted House 41

11. Residual energy or ghost? 43
12. Space clearing 47
13. Helpful spirits 49
14. Annoying ghosts 51
15. Shoes and rice 53
16. Religious symbols 53
17. Crystals 57
18. Mirrors & dreamcatchers 59
19. Angry ghosts 61
20. Special situations 63
21. If it continues… 65

Who Can Help? 69

22. Finding professionals 71

Appendix 77
23. What not to do 79
24. Haunted objects 83
25. Ghosts of animals 85
26. Your home’s history 87
27. Weather and seasonal changes 97
28. Hot and cold spots 101
29. Poltergeists & emotional ghosts 103

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 30. Demons and possession 105
31. Orbs and ghost photos 113
32. Provoking 117
33. Why some ghosts haunt houses 121
34. Crossing over 123
35. Feng Shui for haunted houses 127

Supplementary reading 132

Experience Inducing Fields (EIFs)

Fear cages
Learning from “Philip”
Edited from Wikipedia:
Carbon monoxide
Electromagnetic field (EMF)
Faraday Cage
Poltergeists

Summary 130
Photo credits 147
License and copyright 148
About the author 149

Index 151

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Introduction to the print edition
I wrote the first version of this book in 2009 in response
to an overwhelming number of questions from
researchers and fans of HollowHill.com.

Most of the letters asked, “Is my house haunted?” So,

that’s what I called the original book. However, some
people thought I was asking if my house was haunted.
(It’s not.)

Early in 2010, I began receiving emails with questions

that included symptoms that could be related to carbon
monoxide poisoning.

Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless, and carbon

monoxide poisoning kills people every year. This is too
important to ignore.

Then, late in 2010, emails began asking about dark

entities, dangerous “shadow people” and demons.

It’s one thing when someone is amused to think that they

have a ghost, just like they’ve seen on TV.

It’s a very different matter when they’re in actual danger,

or if they’re afraid they’re being tormented by a demon or
convinced their toddler is possessed.

I’m making this updated information available to the

public, to help people find answers (and solutions) if
they’re frightened or in a genuinely dangerous situation.

For those reasons, this book has a new title and, though
it’s still copyrighted, it’s released under a Creative
Commons license. Please copy and share this
information. (See page 148 for terms & restrictions.)

Fiona Broome, founder of HollowHill.com

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Important
On TV shows and in movies, ghosts can
seem scary and dangerous.

In real life, that’s not true. There are no

documented cases of a ghost killing anyone.
In fact, most people live comfortably with the
ghosts in their homes.

However, it can be difficult to tell the

difference between an angry ghost and a
malicious entity or even a demon.

If you are very concerned about your

safety, put this book down and call a
professional immediately.

Ghosts are spirits, so a spiritual advisor --

such as a priest, minister or rabbi -- may
have the most experience with this kind of
problem, and the best advice.

If he or she cannot help, ask for a referral or

recommendation. There may be a good
paranormal investigation team in your area.

If you feel that you are in danger from

something in your home, do not stay there.
Leave right now.

Get help immediately.

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How to use this book

At first glance, this book may look brief and

simple.

In a way, it is. The key steps are simple to

determine if a house is haunted. It’s not as
complex as it seems on TV.

You don’t need fancy or expensive tools,

and you don’t need to work with the lights
out. It’s mostly a matter of observing what’s
going on, and ruling out all normal
explanations.

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Sometimes, that’s easier said than done.
Time and expertise can be necessary. It
may take weeks or longer to determine
what’s really going on in a possibly haunted
house.

This book is designed to take you through

the logical steps of that process.

You’ll follow these steps if you’re a

homeowner in a house that seems haunted.

In many cases, you’ll have a likely answer

within days, and possibly a solution.

Likewise, if you’re a paranormal investigator,

this book will guide you and your team
through a simple, logical approach to houses
that may have ghost problems.

By starting at the beginning -- observing

what’s going on and keeping a detailed diary
of the activity -- and working your way
through each step, you can reasonably
determine what’s going on in any troubled
home.

You’ll also be able to find answers to the

normal problems, and determine if any
paranormal issues are dangerous.

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Throughout the process,
you’ll see notations for
each step, as shown in the
illustration on the right.
They’ll tell you whether you can probably
handle it on your own, or if it’s better to
consult a professional.

In the Appendix section of this book, you’ll

find several important topics discussed in far
greater detail. Though many homeowners
won’t need that information, it’s there to help
you in specialized situations.

For more information about ghosts, see

HollowHill.com.

Fiona Broome

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Before you do anything else…

Check the carbon monoxide levels at the

possibly-haunted site.

Carbon monoxide is nicknamed “the silent

killer.” Pets and children often react to it
first.

Carbon monoxide (CO), also called

carbonous oxide, is a colorless, odorless
and tasteless gas.

It is highly toxic to humans and animals in

higher quantities.

It can come from a variety of sources,

including gas appliances, woodstoves, car
exhaust, blocked flues, and even cigarette
smoke.

Some people are more sensitive to carbon

monoxide, and may show symptoms before
others do.

Any of the following symptoms may indicate

high levels of carbon monoxide.
headaches
a tight sensation in the chest
nausea
shortness of breath
vomiting

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 dizziness
fatigue
a feeling of weakness
confusion or disorientation
visual disturbances
fainting and seizures
flu symptoms
infants may be irritable
pets can avoid certain areas

Carbon monoxide can also affect the heart

and central nervous system, and raise blood
pressure. Carbon monoxide poisoning can
damage the fetus of a pregnant woman.

Many areas in the UK, America and Canada

have laws recommending (or even requiring)
the use of carbon monoxide detectors in
homes. Older homeowners may not realize
that.

Even if the homeowner has no fireplace or

woodstove, and no gas appliances, check
the levels anyway.

For example, if a nearby neighbor has a

woodstove and you (or the client) sleep with
your window open, elevated carbon
monoxide could explain some “symptoms” of
a haunting.

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If you regularly investigate haunted sites, be
sure your home has very low levels of
carbon monoxide, too.

If you’ve been sensitized to the gas, even

low levels might trigger your symptoms at a
“haunted” site. It could happen. Rule this
out, immediately.

When you’re investigating a potentially

haunted house and any symptoms match
the warning list, carbon monoxide levels
must be checked first.

If the homeowner does not have a carbon

monoxide detector installed, and you don’t
have a handheld monitor, call the fire
department for advice.

13
14
Step one:
Is your house haunted?

No one can tell you whether or not your

house is haunted.

However, by eliminating all natural

explanations for what you’re experiencing,
you can decide whether or not your house
has a ghost.

Ruling out what’s normal (and can be fixed)

is always your first step when a house might
be haunted.

15
16
First, keep a diary of your
experiences in the house.

Keep a diary of what

seems to be going on in
your house.

It can be a simple, spiral bound notebook or

some sheets of paper.

Every time you think you may be

encountering a ghost, write down everything
about it, including how you felt about it.

Note the date, time, and weather conditions.

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Write down who’s in the house with you.

Include what you’re experiencing, including

things you see, hear, smell, or feel, and any
odd tastes you notice in your mouth.

At first, include every possible detail. Did

you eat recently, and what was it? Had
anyone expressed strong emotions (positive
or negative) right before the incident?

Take photos if you can, and include prints of

them in your diary.

See if you can find any pattern to what’s

going on, such as a time, day of the week or
month, or something about the weather.

Keep this for at least four or five encounters,

or until you see a pattern -- whichever
comes first.

You’re doing this so you know exactly when

the odd events are most likely to happen.

With that information, you can schedule a

professional to be in the house when
whatever-it-is happens.

That’s important.

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Professionals must be able to witness the
phenomena to tell you if there’s a normal
explanation.

It’s a lot like taking your car to a mechanic.

Unless he can hear the noise (or whatever
the problem is), he can’t diagnose what’s
causing it.

The more information you gather ahead of

time, the better your chances of finding out
what’s causing the problem, quickly.

However, if you see no pattern at all, a

professional may be able to ask you
additional questions that narrow the possible
explanations.

For example, in the autumn -- around

Halloween -- people often turn on the heat in
their homes.

After a couple of weeks, the wood in the

house can dry out, and shrink slightly. This
can cause doors to pop open by themselves,
floors to creak, and other physical
phenomena.

A handyman or home heating expert may be

able to tell you if that explains your ghostly
experiences.

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Here’s a sample entry in a diary
at a haunted house.

Date: Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Time: 10:00 p.m. to about 11:25 p.m.
Weather: Rainy night, windy, no moon.
Who was there: I was at home, alone.

What happened: I was in the kitchen, feeling happy

as I prepared a snack. Then, I heard a moaning
sound coming from the attic. It was slow and
muffled. There was a smell like pipe smoke, too.

I felt startled, but not scared.

When I turned on the attic light, the noise stopped.

The smell went away quickly. There’s no a/c in the
attic, and the windows were locked shut.

I checked the entire attic and there was no smoke.

The attic smoke detector was still working okay.

When I returned to the kitchen, I noticed that my left

shoulder ached, and I felt sad for no reason.

About ten minutes later, the sound in the attic

started again. The aroma of pipe smoke didn’t
return.

The noise stopped just before 11:30 p.m. but I still

felt a little sad, and unsettled by what was going on.

When I woke up in the morning, my shoulder was

fine and the sadness was gone. However, I was still
uneasy about what had happened the night before.

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Next, contact a home
handyman to help you.

Find someone trustworthy

(and affordable) who has
some experience with
electrical wiring, carpentry,
and plumbing.

Talk about what’s been going on in your

house.

Ask him (or her) to figure out what’s going

on, and quote a price to fix it.

Noises can be caused by loose floorboards

or shingles, or the wind whistling through a
broken or slightly open window.

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Odd noises can also be caused by plumbing,
heating, or something in the chimney or
vents.

Odors can result from mold or mildew, or air

from the outside. If a neighbor smokes in
the garden, or he’s burning trash in his
furnace or fireplace, you could encounter
odd smells.

Cold spots can occur near a/c vents, or if

there’s a leak in the ductwork. Some metal
and stone surfaces can seem to absorb
heat, creating an apparent cold area, as
well.

These are a few normal explanations for odd

phenomena in some houses.

Next, let’s talk about the usual reasons why

a house might seem haunted.

These normal problems can cause ghostly

noises, distress and discomfort, and other
odd phenomena that look almost exactly like
classic hauntings.

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EMF can explain many
problems.

Electro magnetic fields

(EMF) occur in everyone’s
house. That’s normal.

However, high levels of EMF energy can be

a health risk, so it’s important to learn if it’s a
problem in your home.

EMF is usually related to the wiring in your

house, and how well it’s shielded.

You may have higher EMF around a TV,

computer monitor, or microwave oven.

23
High EMF levels in any part of your home
can cause problems. It is a leading reason
for physical and emotional phenomena.

It explains why some people think their

homes are haunted, when they’re not.

The following symptoms can result from

EMF sensitivity:

Skin redness, tingling, or a burning

sensation
Fatigue
Concentration difficulties
Dizziness
Nausea
Heart palpitation, and
Digestive disturbances.

Some people also report anxiety, insomnia

and memory loss. Others report symptoms
ranging from abdominal pain to
hallucinations.

EMF levels are measured with an EMF

detector. You can check this yourself, but
you’ll probably want to consult a professional
to be certain. If the EMF levels are
constantly high, have the problem fixed as
soon as possible.

Then, re-evaluate your ghost evidence.

24
Check for level floors &
even stairways.

A simple, inexpensive
carpenters’ level can
identify many problems.

If floors are at a slight angle, they can

disorient people and cause physical
phenomena (such as a chair that seems to
rock or move by itself).

If just one step in a stairway is tilted, even a

little, people can feel uneasy on those stairs.

25
A poorly-made house or an older, settled
home can be out of alignment. That’s
normal, especially when the home is built on
extremely sandy or moist soil.

Doors or windows may seem to close

themselves when they aren’t hung correctly.
If the doorframe has sagged with age, that
could explain door problems.

However, though a loose window can close

itself, double-hung windows don’t usually
open on their own, unless the counterweight
is too heavy.

Window shades can snap or unroll by

themselves when the winding mechanism is
too tight or too loose. You may need to
replace the shades.

If a staircase seems haunted, measure the

angle and height of each step. Even a ¼
inch difference can cause some people to
loose their footing or feel pushed on those
stairs.

Check several locations in every room that

seems haunted.

See HollowHill.com for a video about this

procedure.

26
Beware of mold, mildew
and other allergens.

Are you are sensitive to --

or allergic to -- something
in the house?

Even subtle levels of mold or mildew can

create headaches or anxiety in some people.

Allergies to paints, new carpeting, or air

fresheners can create symptoms of physical
and emotional stress.

If the haunting started recently, look for what

changed around that time.

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Look for home improvements, new cleaning
products, or new furniture.

Some people hallucinate when they use

strong oven cleaners. Others react to off-
gassing from new carpets, etc.

Also check for overdue cleaning. Dust or

mold in a home’s heating (or a/c) system can
cause a variety of physical complaints.

If carpets need cleaning, or there might be

mildew beneath them, have them
professionally deep cleaned. (In some
cases, the carpeting and pads must be
replaced.)

A sensitivity to mold and mildew may explain

why some people feel very uncomfortable in
the basement of their home. (Elevated EMF
levels are another likely issue in a basement,
particularly around fuse boxes and wiring.)

You can probably spot some of these issues

yourself, but -- if you don’t -- consult a
professional, just in case.

28
Are there animals in your
attic, chimney or walls?

“Ghostly” sounds from

animals can include:

scratching or
fluttering noises
sounds like whispering
crying or chattering of baby animals in
a nest, or
whimpering, calling and moaning of a
trapped animal, or an animal in heat.

29
Your “ghost” might be an animal or a nest of
animals.

You or your handyman can look for signs of

animal visitors. These can include
droppings or remnants of food, scratch
marks, nesting materials, etc.

Especially check in the chimney, attic,

crawlspaces and basement.

Though the animal seems to be in your walls

or ductwork, it may enter or exit through an
opening somewhere else in the house.

Check both the inside and outside of your

home, including the roof and eaves of your
home. Hire a pro to do this.

You may need an inspection by someone

who specializes in pest extermination.

Or, your town or county may have an animal

control office. If you think your problem
might be an animal, ask the office to send
someone to your home.

In warmer climates, large insects -- such as

palmetto bugs -- can create startling noises
inside your walls, ductwork, or floors.

30
Plumbing, heating and
a/c noises can fool you.

If you’ve recently moved

into a home with steam
heat, noises in the pipes
may surprise you.

They can sound like moaning, whistling,

whispering, humming, or something
pounding on the floor or walls.

Air pockets in your plumbing can sound

eerie, too, after pipes were worked on.

Also ask the former owners if they noticed

these kinds of noises.

31
A furnace or air conditioning unit can make
strange noises if it needs maintenance.

Some other plumbing & heating problems

require a visit from a professional.

As discussed earlier, mold, mildew, insects

or animals in your ductwork can cause
various symptoms. Professional cleaning is
usually the answer.

If you use something to increase or

decrease the humidity in your home or
basement, check that for mold or mildew,
too.

An odorless carbon monoxide leak from your

furnace can cause symptoms that mimic a
haunting.

Carbon monoxide isn’t just a nuisance. It

can kill you. If you suspect this, call
someone right now.

Also check your gas-fired water heater for

related problems.

32
Look for drafts, rumbles,
and underground water.

When doors close by

themselves, or light objects
move when no one is near,
suspect a draft.

Heavier objects can seem to move by

themselves if a train or heavy truck passes
nearby, particularly if the floor or surface isn’t
level.

Underground springs and streams can

cause eerie effects, even when you don’t
consciously realize they’re there.

33
You or your home handyman can check for
drafts, usually with a candle.

If subtle vibrations from a train, truck, or

underground stream are involved, that can
be checked with a glass of water. (Similar to
what was shown in the movie, Jurassic
Park.)

Also, some people are disoriented around

the very low frequency generated by
underground streams. Those noises are
often below a level that people notice on a
conscious level, but they still affect us.

A geological map may help identify

underground water sources beneath or near
your home.

A surprising number of convincing, ghostly

phenomena have occurred over or near
underground streams.

Scientists are still studying the relationship

between water and paranormal activity. (See
the EIFs article in the Supplementary
section.)

Water is often associated with poltergeist

activity, meaning noisy phenomena or
objects that seem to move -- sometimes
across a room -- by themselves.

34
Do you feel trapped in your
bed during the night?

If you are troubled by

ghosts when you sleep, it
may be “sleep paralysis.”
This happens to most
people at least once or twice in their
lifetimes. That’s normal, if scary.

It feels as if you are awake (or trying to wake

up) and someone is holding you down.
Some people see an entity, usually an ugly
old woman or something very evil looking.

35
People usually feel fully awake -- and
alarmed -- when they experience it. It can
be nearly impossible to convince them that
the experience wasn’t caused by a ghost or
demonic entity.

This phenomenon has been called “old hag

syndrome.”

If this happens more than twice in one

month, ask your doctor for advice. He or
she may suggest a sleep aid, to help you
break any unconscious habits that trigger
these terrifying experiences.

If the problem continues, consult a sleep

specialist, even if you’re sure that it’s an
actual ghost.

In some cases, this can be related to sleep

apnea, a potentially dangerous health
condition.

Rule out health issues immediately. The

stress and loss of sleep can be enough to
trigger repeated events.

If the disturbances continue and your doctor

is certain there’s no physical reason for your
experiences, it may be time to set
boundaries with your ghosts, so they leave
you alone at night.

36
If your home handyman
can’t find the problem….

If you still can’t discover a

normal explanation for
what you’re experiencing,
your house might be
haunted.

The first step is probably a second opinion

from another home handyman, or to ask
neighbors if they’ve had similar problems.

You don’t need to raise the issue of ghosts.

Just describe what’s going on, and see if a
neighbor knows what it might be.

37
For example, if squirrels are getting into a
neighbor’s attic, that might explain the odd
noises in your attic, too.

If a home was built near yours, recently -- or

if someone put in a new well -- they may
know about underground springs and
streams in the area.

Often, the same carpenter or contractors

built neighboring houses. If so, a neighbor
may already know about uneven floors,
irregular stairways, EMF issues with wiring,
or mold in vents around the attic.

Did your home handyman witness the

phenomena? If not, and the situation is
annoying but not scary, continue to keep
your diary of what happens and when.

There is always the remote possibility that

someone’s playing a prank. If so, they’ll get
tired of it, especially if it looks like you’re not
frightened.

No matter what the explanation, it’s vital to

have someone like a handyman witness
what’s going on. That’s the only way you’ll
know if there’s a normal (and fixable) reason
for what you’re experiencing.

38
In addition, you may need to consult a home
construction expert --someone with more
experience than your handyman -- to rule
out all normal possibilities.

Ask neighbors to recommend companies

they’ve used in the past.

Because you are vulnerable when you’re

stressed or frightened, be sure to ask for
references before bringing anyone into your
home.

Check review websites such as

AngiesList.com.

Call the company’s competitors and ask if

there’s anything you should know about the
company you’ve chosen. Though some
people may make up stories to convince you
to use their service, instead, most
businesses are honest when you call them.

Also, if you’re at home when the professional

or team arrive for the inspection, you may
learn some useful (and money-saving) tips
about maintaining your home.

If they have to fix something to prevent

whatever seemed like a ghost, always ask,
“What can I do to prevent this in the future?”

39
If no one has a reasonable explanation for
what’s going on in your home, and you’ve
consulted experts… it’s time to take your
research to the next level.

Please keep safety in mind.

If you (or anyone in your household) are

extremely stressed or losing sleep and it’s
affecting your daily life, get help from your
doctor or a member of the religious
community. Do this immediately.

If that’s not helpful or practical, stay with

friends or family (or even at a local motel)
until you’re refreshed and ready to deal with
this again.

If you have children and they’re affected --

directly or indirectly -- by what’s going on,
perhaps they can stay with grandparents
while you’re resolving this. It’s vital to
prevent childhood trauma from the events in
your home. Get help.

If this is a low-level (but odd) and unresolved

problem in your home, it’s probably time to
consider if a spirit is living in (or visiting) your
home.

40
Step Two:
Coping with a haunted
house

If you’re certain that your house is

haunted, it’s time to decide how
serious the problem is.

Consider the risks -- physical,

emotional and spiritual -- and the
effects on people who live in and visit
your home.

41
42
Is it residual energy, or an
active, sentient* entity?
*Sentient refers to a ghost that is aware of what’s going on.

Most hauntings (up to

80%) do not involve ghosts
or entities of any kind.

That kind of haunting is actually an energy

imprint that lingers after emotional events.

It may recharge itself on certain days, at

certain hours, or when “trigger” events occur
at the site.

It’s important to find out if it’s an actual

ghost, before you do anything else.

43
Your diary will tell you a lot. If the same
thing happens, over and over again -- such
as a door slamming every Tuesday night at
10 p.m. -- it’s probably residual energy.

Residual energy hauntings seem to be

leftover energy after one or more emotional
events took place at the site.

It’s like walking into a room after two people

have had an ugly argument. You can almost
feel the crackle of energy in the air.

That same energy can linger after a dramatic

event took place in your house. It could be
something tragic, such as a death or a
broken heart.

However, it could be energy lingering after a

series of birthday parties, or the annual New
Year’s Eve parties that included the most
powerful people in town.

Here’s the key to deciding if it’s a ghost or

residual energy:

Talk to it. Turn the lights on and off. Slam

doors. Turn the heat up in the house, or turn
the a/c on.

44
See if you can interact with it in any way,
such as with a K-II EMF meter.
(That’s an EMF meter used by many
professional ghost hunters, to detect ghostly
energy or even communicate with a spirit.
See HollowHill.com for more information.)

If nothing changes, no matter what you do,

it’s probably residual energy.

In some cases, you can reduce that energy.

In others, you can’t.

The classic way to handle residual energy --

and it can help with annoying ghosts -- is
space clearing to reduce the lingering
energy.

The simplest method is to vacuum the room

where the hauntings seem to occur.

Vacuum clean every square inch of the

room, including the floor, walls and ceiling.
Spend extra time vacuum cleaning corners,
especially high up. (You’ll need a wand-style
attachment for this.)

Some people think the electricity is what

banishes the residual energy. Others think
it’s the noise, so the noisier the vacuum
cleaner, the better.

45
You may need to repeat this several times.
If it doesn’t work within a week or two, try a
different space clearing technique.

In most cases, you can reduce the residual

energy, but not entirely remove it. It must
dissipate on its own. This can take days, or
it may take years. A lot depends on what
triggers the energy, and how much it seems
to be recharging from the environment.

Remember that residual energy does not

involve an entity. No matter how the energy
seems to affect you emotionally or
physically, it’s not a ghost or a demon.

Residual energy may indicate the kinds of

events that lead to ghostly hauntings as well.
However, you can have residual energy
imprints on your home (or objects in it)
without having any ghosts in your home.

Research suggests that at least 80% of

hauntings are the result of residual energy.

If nothing seems to react when you make

changes around the phenomena… it’s
probably residual energy.

In that case, there’s nothing to be afraid of.

Residual energy is merely annoying.

46
Other space clearing
methods may help.

Space clearing has been

used for centuries to
improve -- or unblock --
helpful energy in homes
and businesses.

Though vacuuming is a relatively new

method, other approaches have been used
successfully in a variety of cultures and eras.

Start with what’s easy. If that doesn’t work,

try something else.

47
Incense

Many people like to use incense, or a sage

“smudge.”

Don’t create so much smoke that you’re

choking, but it should be enough to set off
your smoke detector.

Spread the smoky aroma throughout the

room. That’s all you need to do.

Generally, people believe that it’s the smoke

that helps. An air freshener is not a good
substitute.

Singing bowls

Other people use a “singing bowl.” Ring it

throughout the haunted room/s until the tone
carries clearly. (Haunted areas tend to
muffle the sound.)

See the Feng Shui section of the Appendix

for more space clearing ideas.

If space clearing doesn’t help, you may have

an actual ghost or other entity.

48
Is this a helpful or
benevolent spirit?

In many cases, houses are

“haunted” by loving, caring
spirits.

Your ghost may be a family member who is

there to help and support you. He or she
may even protect you from danger.

Or, your ghost may be a former resident or

tenant who liked it so well, he or she returns
regularly.

49
If he or she doesn’t want to leave, you can
find ways to live together.

You may have to set “ground rules” to co-

exist with your ghost (or ghosts).

Talk out loud to your ghost. Act as if he or

she is physically there.

Explain the problem, and the best solution.

Ask the ghost to respect your rules and your
boundaries. It’s unacceptable to scare you
or others, or to interrupt your sleep.

Ghosts can be forgetful or mischievous. You

may need to repeat the rules several times.

However, many people think of their ghosts

as invisible roommates… who don’t leave
the toilet seat up or steal your food from the
refrigerator.

In fact, there are stories about lives (and

houses) saved through the help of a resident
ghost. (She’s usually a ghostly woman
dressed in green.)

Most people find ways to live comfortably

with ghosts in their homes.

As long as the ghosts are respectful, you

can live together in the same house.

50
Is your ghost annoying or
inconsiderate?

Some ghosts aren’t mean

or dangerous. They’re just
annoying.

They wake you up with noises at night.

They chill the room on winter nights. They
frighten your pets or your nervous
grandmother.

They don’t understand boundaries, and

what’s funny and what isn’t.

51
If that’s what you’re dealing with, talk out
loud with your ghost. If he or she doesn’t
respond well -- or keeps “forgetting” the rules
-- you may need to be more assertive.

Before taking further steps, explain to your

ghost why those steps are necessary. If he
or she had been more cooperative, things
wouldn’t have reached this point.

However, as long as your ghost is a joker or

merely difficult to live with, it’s not time for an
exorcism or even a house blessing.

Lesser folk remedies may help you and your

ghost co-exist happily, or encourage the
ghost to leave.

Many of these remedies sound silly. They

don’t make much sense to us.

However, for hundreds of years, these

solutions have worked.

In the next few sections, we’ll talk about

classic cures for problem ghosts.

52
Simple ghost remedies -
shoes and rice

Ghosts have been

documented almost as
long as there’s been
written history.

Successful “folklore” cures have also been

recorded. Some of them work remarkably
well, even in the most haunted homes.

One of the simplest, silliest cures is to turn

two shoes in opposite directions, and leave
them there. (See photo, above.)

53
According to folklore, this confuses the
ghosts, and they’ll stare at the shoes all
night.

I successfully used this at the very haunted

Myrtles Plantation in Louisiana.

A similar “cure” is to throw a handful of rice

on the floor in the room where the ghost is
most active. (If you have a choice, the
kitchen is usually recommended.)

Folklore claims that ghosts will compulsively

count the grains, over & over again, and
leave you alone.

Generally, you’ll need to clean up the rice in

the morning, and cast it again at night.

Though rice is the classic grain

recommended in folklore, any small item can
work, if there are enough of them.

Split peas, beans, and other objects can be

used instead of rice. A bowl of salt next to
your bed may work the same way.

Tip: Be sure that everyone in the house is

aware of what’s on the floor, so there are no
accidents if someone gets up for a midnight
snack.

54
Religious symbols can
reduce ghost problems.

If you are a religious

person -- and perhaps
even if you’re not -- some
religious symbols seem to
repel ghosts.

Those symbols will be most effective if they

reflect your own spirituality.

However, there is one warning.

If there is any possibility that you’re dealing

with something dark or demonic, religious

55
symbols or rituals can make things worse
instead of better.

Speak with an experienced demonologist

(such as John Zaffis, Fr. Andrew Calder, or
Carl & Keith Johnson) immediately.

However, if this is a normal (but annoying)

haunting, you may experience relief if you
place religious symbols, statues or artwork
around your home.

Christians often choose symbols of the Holy

Spirit or St. Michael.

Almost every religion has amulets or statues

that repel evil spirits or ghosts.

Now and then (rarely), symbols from the

homeowner’s spirituality don’t work. If that
happens, use something that will impress
the ghost.

That could be a religious symbol from his or

her era and belief system. You may need to
research the identity -- or at least the time
period -- most likely to match your ghost.

See the Appendix section about discovering

your home’s history.

56
Crystals can thwart ghosts and
restore peace.

Many people find relief with

crystals.

There are two ways to use

crystals if ghosts are a problem.

You can choose crystals that ghosts don’t

like, to repel them. You can use crystals that
increase positive energy and empower you.
Or, you can use both.

Crystals and their uses can be a complex

topic.

57
Many ghost hunters wear or carry hematite
(or blood ore) to absorb or repel negative
energy. Hematite has interesting magnetic
properties, and it’s been identified on the
planet Mars.

It’s also possible to resolve a haunting by

placing a quartz crystal in each corner of the
haunted room, or in each corner of the
home’s basement.

However, homes built on quartz report

hauntings more often than those with no
quartz nearby. If your home is already on
quartz, bringing more in may be a bad idea.

New Age stores can “prescribe” the correct

crystals to help your home.

Also ask about cleansing your crystals. In

some cases, the crystals will need to be
removed (taking the negative energy with
them), cleansed, or recharged and replaced.

Some people use sea salt or salt water to

restore crystals’ energy. Others believe that
moonlight (from the full moon) is helpful.

When you purchase your crystals, ask the

storeowner to recommend use and care of
each kind of crystal.

58
More remedies - mirrors and
dreamcatchers

Some homes are

successfully protected with
decorations.

In fact, you may have seen them in others’

homes, and didn’t realize their purpose.

Two of the most popular are mirrors and

dreamcatchers.

Both work best as protection, keeping ghosts

out of a room or an entire house.

59
So, you may have to banish the ghost first,
with a space clearing technique.

Then, place mirrors and/or dreamcatchers in

the areas you want to keep free of ghosts.

Place a mirror on your door facing out so the

ghost is startled when he or she looks into it.

(Remember, many ghosts can see through

doors & walls, If the mirror might look odd,
you can put it inside the house or room, and
cover it with a poster or other decoration.)

Or, a dreamcatcher in each window and over

your bed may bring you peaceful sleep, and
relief from your ghosts.

Some notes about mirrors already in a

haunted room:

Many people believe that mirrors can be

portals, or passageways to another world.
At least half the time when someone
complains about a haunted object, it’s either
a mirror or a doll/figure. (See the Appendix.)

If a room is particularly haunted, you may

need to drape the mirror with a dark cloth, or
remove the mirror altogether.

60
Angry ghosts may require
stronger methods.

There may be a fine line

between angry ghosts and
malicious spirits.

If safety is an issue, consult a professional.

Don’t try these techniques at home if the
problem might be an evil entity or demon.

However, if you’re simply dealing with an

annoying, belligerent ghost, the following
methods may help.

61
Some ghosts don’t like garlic cloves or bowls
of salt. Put one next to your bed.

According to legend -- and many ghost

hunters’ reports -- ghosts don’t like to cross
a line of salt. Place a line of salt across your
doorways, or even around your house. (Be
sure that the ghosts have left the house,
first.)

Sea salt may be best, and may people use

blessed sea salt.

This is worth repeating: Be sure that the

ghost is out of the room (or the entire house)
before you complete the line of salt.
Otherwise, you might trap the spirit in the
house; he or she won’t cross the line of salt
to get out.

Holy water is another tried-and-true remedy

for hauntings. You do not have to be a
religious person to use it, but it’s better if you
are.

Online, you’ll find a variety of rituals to

enhance the effects of holy water in your
home.

Or, you can ask a priest or minister to bless

your house. That may be the best choice.

62
Special situations: Children
and teens

When a family with

children is troubled by
ghosts, different
approaches may be
necessary.

As a mom, I’m particularly concerned when

children are frightened by ghosts.

Households with teenagers may have

different problems.

63
If the haunting is mild and not dangerous, a
movie like “Casper” may calm a frightened
child. Your public library may recommend
other “happy” ghost stories.

However, if your children could be

traumatized by what’s going on in your
home, consult professionals immediately.

If you are dealing with a poltergeist (literally,

a “noisy ghost”) that’s causing mischief, the
activity may be related to a teen in your
home, or anyone else on an emotional (or
hormonal) roller coaster.

You can learn more about poltergeists and

emotional ghosts in the Appendix section of
this book.

Depending on the severity of this haunting,

professional advice may be the best choice.

Never take a chance when safety is an

issue.

Above all, do not put your children at risk.

They may be far more vulnerable than you
realize.

64
Use common sense if the
problem continues.

If you’ve tried everything in

this book and nothing has
worked, it may be time to
call in a professional.

However, you may not need a professional

ghost hunter. You may have adequate
resources in your hometown, or even among
your friends.

Ask your friends and family if they know

anyone who’s lived in a haunted house.

65
(You can make this sound like a normal
question, and lead into it by mentioning a
recent TV show about ghosts.)

You might discover that your home was well-

known as a “haunted” house, and everyone
assumed you already knew about it.

You could also learn that your family has a

hereditary ghost or two. This spirit may be a
protector, such as a benevolent ancestor or
a Banshee. (Banshees do not cause death
or tragedy. In fact, they protect families,
usually those with Irish ancestry.)

This kind of information can transform a

frightening experience into something less
scary.

If you belong to a church, ask your spiritual

leaders for advice. They’ve probably dealt
with ghost questions in the past.

At this level, help should be free or very

inexpensive… no more than the price of
lunch in a nice restaurant.

Remember, you’re dealing with a spirit.

Your first line of defense and protection will
probably be spiritual.

66
Even if you don’t believe in God or go to
church, a priest or minister may be your best
resource when dealing with a ghost.

Also remember: Bad advice can be worse

than doing nothing.

Whether you’re getting help from your

minister, or a neighbor who has been part of
a professional ghost team for ten years: Ask
for references and check them.

The time to get a second opinion is before

anyone comes into your home and stirs up
the energy.

Always ask:

What do you plan to do?

What are the risks?
How much experience have you had,
in this kind of work?
Do I know anyone this has worked for?
(Check that reference.)
If this doesn’t work, what’s next?

67
68
Step Three:
Who can help?

There are at least two times when you

must seek professional help for a
haunting.

The first is if the haunting is creating

health or safety issues.

The second is if nothing else has

helped, you or a family member is
feeling severely stressed, and the
hauntings must stop.

69
70
How to find and select a
professional.

If your house is dangerously or chronically,

disturbingly haunted, you must consult a
professional.

There are two kinds of professionals who

may provide the best help: Spiritual advisors
and paranormal investigators.

No matter which you choose, they should

have had extensive experience with ghosts
and hauntings, and provide references that
you can check.

71
If you might be dealing with a demon or a
dangerous entity, don’t take chances.
Contact a priest, minister, or reputable
demonologist immediately.

Spiritual options for haunted houses

include everything from having your house
blessed, to a full exorcism.

Your local priest, minister or other spiritual

leader can recommend resources in your
community.

Even if you are not a religious person, but

you want a spiritual approach, visit a church
in your town. It won’t be as awkward as you
might think.

Generally, I recommend a spiritual approach

first, if you and your family are very religious.

However, if you’re not comfortable with that,

or you can’t find someone in whom you have
confidence, look for a good paranormal
investigator or team.

Paranormal investigators and teams seem

to be everywhere now. Choose carefully.

It won’t be difficult to find this kind of help.

Websites such as The-Atlantic-Paranormal-
Society.com offer some recommendations.

72
However, it’s vital to screen people carefully.

Ask if they have a business license or other

professional credentials, and how long
they’ve worked in this field.

If they have a website, see how professional

it looks and long it’s been online. (Use a free
“WhoIs” lookup site to check the history of
their domain name.)

Remember: Anyone can have a website,

radio show or TV show. (I’ve turned down
dozens of TV producers.) Some TV “stars”
clearly have no idea what they’re doing.

Fame doesn’t count in this business.

Experience, skill and happy clients are all
that matter.

Ask for references, and check them.

Ask the police and Better Business Bureau if

anyone has complained.

You may also want to run a criminal

background check. There are online
resources for this, and your police
department may have suggestions.

73
When you interview paranormal
investigators, ask questions such as:

What organizations are you affiliated

with?
How soon can you begin?
Exactly what will you do, and how
many people are on your team?
How much time will you need?
If my house is haunted, exactly what
will you do to help?

Note: There are no “ghost hunting licenses.”

Be very skeptical if someone claims to be
licensed as a paranormal investigator.

Most paranormal investigators do not charge

clients for this kind of work. They may ask
you to cover their reasonable travel
expenses.

The vast majority of ghost hunters are good,

sincere people. However, you are
particularly vulnerable when a ghost
frightens you and your family.

If you need professional help with your

haunted house, be sure you know (a) who’s
entering your home, and (b) that they’re the
best possible people to help you.

74
When they arrive in your home, if you aren’t
comfortable with someone on the team,
speak up.

If they do anything that troubles you, say so.

If they seem to be provoking the ghost/s or

making things worse, ask the team leader to
explain what’s going on.

If anyone appears to be on drugs, or has

alcohol on his/her breath, ask them to leave.

At issue is the safety of you and your family.

It’s better to seem rude, paranoid or weird

than to take chances.

There is a lot that we don’t know about

ghosts. There is never just one answer to
issues related to hauntings.

If you’re not comfortable with what’s going

on in your home, ask questions. If you aren’t
happy with the answers, ask the person or
team to leave.

Call someone else, or go back to your priest

or minister for further suggestions.

75
76
23. What not to do 79
24. Haunted objects 83
25. Ghosts of animals 85
26. Your home’s history 87
27. Weather and seasonal changes 97
28. Hot and cold spots 101
29. Poltergeists and emotional ghosts 103
30. Demons and possession 105
31. Orbs and ghost photos 113
32. Provoking 117
33. Why some ghosts haunt houses 121
34. Crossing over 123
35. Feng Shui for haunted houses 127

77
78
What not to do

Only a few things can cause more problems

than you had when you started looking for
answers.

The biggest danger is to wait, and hope

things will improve on their own. Usually,
they won’t.

If you’re reading this book because you think

your house might be haunted, start your
diary (page 17) immediately.

Don’t wait for things to get worse. Do

something about this today.

79
Here are some other warnings:

1. If you feel in danger, even if you think it

sounds foolish, call someone right away.
For many people, it’s easiest to call a friend
who has dealt with ghosts, or a member of
the religious community (a priest, minister,
etc.). If you can’t think of anyone else, call
the police.

2. If you feel in danger, do not try any steps

in this book (even the “Easy - DIY” ones) by
yourself.

Contact a professional.

If you’re already working with a professional

and you are frightened, or aren’t certain the
person is doing his or her job, get a second
opinion right away.

If you are frightened, don’t “wait and see” if

things will get better. (As I’ve said before,
they usually won’t.)

3. Do not use a Ouija board. Ghosts are

not performers, and some Ouija board
experiments have gone terribly wrong.

If you’ve already caused problems with a

Ouija board, do not burn it. Bury it at least a
foot deep, usually at the foot of a tree. (I’m

80
not sure why this works, but several people
have recommended it.)

If that’s not practical (for example, when the

ground is frozen in winter) or a body of water
is on your property, some professionals
suggest throwing the object into the water.
You may want to add weights to it; to be
sure it remains submerged.

(Of course, environmental issues must be

considered. Never throw anything into water
if that’s illegal or might cause problems.)

You can dispose of objects at a landfill site,

as long as it will be buried, not burned.

Note: I do not believe that Ouija boards are

dangerous, in themselves. It’s the misuse of
them that seems to cause the problems.
Once that door is opened, it can be difficult
to get under control.

Even if someone “uses a Ouija board all the

time,” it’s risky to bring one into your home to
contact your ghosts.

4. If you become frightened at any point in

this process -- or if a family member
(especially a child) does -- get out of the
house immediately.

81
Stay with friends or family, or in a motel or
even a shelter, until the problems are
resolved.

5. Do not use holy water unless you are

absolutely certain that it’s a ghost, not a
malicious spirit or demon.

If you’re not sure, consult an experienced,

respected demonologist such as Father
Andrew Calder, Carl & Keith Johnson, or
John Zaffis, listed on page 112.

Despite what you see on TV and in movies,

demons and evil entities are very rare.
However, it’s smart not to take a chance if
you’re dealing with an extreme haunting.

6. If the problem returns, don’t assume that

the previous efforts didn’t work. Often,
especially with intense hauntings, it’s
necessary to repeat the steps. Try again.

Above all, do not stay anywhere that you

don’t feel safe.

If you are anxious about what’s going on, get

the help that you need. This includes
medical, spiritual, emotional and mental
health counseling when that’s appropriate.

82
Haunted objects - and what
to do with them

Objects can absorb minute, molecular

particles from the people who’ve owned or
handled them in the past.

Some objects seem to retain residual energy

(good or bad) from previous owners.

Many people are sensitive to that energy. If

you’re one of them, and you don’t like an
object in your home, give it to someone else,
sell it, or donate it to charity.

83
However, some objects really do seem to be
haunted.

In most cases, haunted objects are:

dolls or figures
masks or primitive religious artifacts
mirrors

However, the list is unlimited. For centuries,

people have believed in “cursed” objects
such as the Hope Diamond, or cursed sites
such as Tutankhamen’s tomb in Egypt.

If your paranormal problems seem to focus

on one object, remove it from your home.

If the item is valuable or historical, a

museum may want it. They deal with this
kind of issue all the time. (Remember to
request a receipt for your tax deduction.)

Otherwise -- as I said before -- either find

someone who wants it, bury the object or
cast it into a body of water.

If your town has a landfill-style disposal site

and the object will be buried, not burned,
that may be a simple solution.

This is important: Do not burn the object.

84
Ghosts of animals

Most animal ghosts are wonderful. Anyone

who’s been around the ghost of a pet can
assure you that animals do have souls, and
they survive after death.

Often, the animals seem to be visiting our

world to stay close to their owners, or the
places where the pet lived and played.

Any animal can return as a ghost. In my

family, we regularly saw a ghostly fish in our
aquarium. We hadn’t even named the fish,
so I can’t claim that it was a beloved pet.

85
However, he appeared regularly to us and
even to people who’d never seen the original
fish, and had no reason to suspect that our
fish tank included a ghost.

Ghostly cats are frequently reported. Lizzie

Borden’s haunted house includes the ghost
of a cat. It looks like any other cat, and --
unless you already knew it’s a ghost -- you’d
assume that it was a normal, living cat.

People often report happy, ghostly

reminders of their dogs, as well. That’s not
scary.

Though there have been reports of other

ghostly animals -- including a “ghost pig” that
appeared in Salem, Massachusetts, during
the Witch Trials -- the vast majority of animal
ghosts are former pets or affectionate animal
companions.

Unless the ghostly animal seems to be a

problem, or is unhappy, it’s usually nothing
to worry about.

If you are concerned, a priest or minister

may have a blessing or brief service to help
the animal cross over to the other side.

86
Discover your home’s
history

If your home is haunted, you may want to

learn more about the ghost.

Sometimes, that research can be easy. See

my book, Paragenealogy, for details.
Meanwhile, the following tips may be helpful.

Identify your ghost

If you’ve seen an apparition in your home,

check the hairstyle and any unusual clothing
on the ghost.

87
Then, go to your public library and review
books about historical fashions.

See if you can estimate the time period

when your ghost lived.

It’s usually easier to correctly guess the era

of a woman, because fashions -- hem
lengths, bustles, and so on -- are so
distinctive.

However, hats and lapel widths can help

narrow the time period if the ghost is male.
See if he’s wearing a vest, and how it’s
buttoned. Look for a tie or a pocket watch.
Each of those can help identify when he
lived.

With an era to focus on, it’s time to research

the history of your home.

Former residents and owners

Your neighbors may know the general

history of who owned or lived in your house,
and when.

You can also follow the basic steps that

someone would if they were doing a title
search for your home. Town, county or state
records will show who owned your property
in the past, and the years of their ownership.

88
By connecting the time period (“she lived in
the 1890s”) to the owners (“the Fred Jones
family owned this house from 1883 to
1917”), you’re ready to identify likely ghosts.

First, you’ll conduct basic genealogical

research.

Let’s say the family was owned by Fred

Jones and the ghost appeared to be a 20-
year-old woman in clothing from around the
1890s.

You’ll use family history resources (census

records, church records, etc.) to find out
which members of Fred Jones’ household
had been 20-something in the 1890s.

Then, you’ll find out what happened to each

of them.

You’re not necessarily looking for someone

who died at age 20-something. Your ghost
may have lived a long and happy life, but
she chooses to return to her childhood
home, and her chosen form is how she
looked when she was 20.

In fact, it’s important to remember that a

ghost may haunt a location where no one
died tragically… or ever died, at all.

89
Though most troubling hauntings involve
stories of money, power struggles, drama or
tragedy, your home may be happily haunted.

Photographs

One of the surest ways to confirm the

identity of your ghost is to match a photo of
the person to how he or she appears as an
apparition.

Though this is rare, it can happen.

Your search through historical records may

turn up photos at a family website. You
could see the person’s picture on his military
records, draft card, police documents or a
passport.

In earlier eras, painted portraits were

popular.

Sometimes, the person’s gravestone

includes a portrait in the form of a face --
sometimes as an angel -- or a figure.

However, if you find no records to suggest a

20-something woman in Fred Jones’
household in the 1890s, your next step can
be more time consuming.

90
What happened at your house?

If your community has an historical society,

visit it. Sometimes, historians know
unexpected and quirky history related to
individual homes.

If not, you may need to conduct more

extensive genealogical research.

The first step is to browse newspapers and

police reports from your ghost’s apparent
era. In this case, let’s say it’s the 1890s.

I hope those records are indexed, or in

digital files, so you don’t have to read every
issue, page by page. (You may decide it’s
not worthwhile.)

You’re looking for significant events that

might have left an energy imprint on the
home, or be a reason for someone to haunt.

Start looking for the classic elements: power

struggles, disputes over money or property,
anything with drama involved, or tragedy.

In many cases, you can do this kind of

research online. See LivingWithGhosts.com
for links to free and inexpensive resources.

91
EVP

Once you have a list of likely people, you

can call your ghost by name. Go through
your list, one by one, and see if you get a
response. This is where EVP may be
helpful. (EVP stands for electronic voice
phenomena.)

You’ll use any digital recorder. (Tape

recorders aren’t as good, because the
microphones can pick up the whoosh-
whoosh sound of the tape as it turns in the
recorder. That can be confused with
whispering by ghosts.)

With the digital recorder on, talk to your

ghost as if he or she is there. Allow pauses
for the ghost to reply, even if you hear
nothing.

Then, listen to the recording. In some

cases, you’ll hear sounds that weren’t there
during your one-sided conversation. They
can include voices, whispers, whistling,
singing, tapping, or the sound of footsteps.

Check the recording by filtering it through

your computer. Several programs screen
out the sound of passing cars, airplanes, etc.
See HollowHill.com for more information.

92
Generally, if you need extreme measures to
hear anything in the recording, there’s
nothing helpful in it. (However, some
paranormal researchers disagree on that
point, and routinely play recordings
backwards and through dramatic filters.)

However, EVP doesn’t work for everyone.

Alternatives to EVP

There are alternatives to communicate in

real time with your ghost.

Though they’re no longer in production, tools

such as the Puck and the Ovilus -- and their
more recent counterparts -- relayed words to
us. Those machines used ambient energy
(EMF spikes, etc.) to trigger speech. I’ve
joked that it sounded like a Furby.

By seeing how the words related to each

other, some investigators have been able to
discern the ghost’s history, concerns, or
even his or her identity.

You’ll find other talking tools -- such as the

Shack Hack, Frank’s Box and the Telephone
to the Dead -- mentioned at HollowHill.com.

93
You can also use some EMF meters or even
a sensitive, loosened flashlight, and ask the
ghost yes/no questions.

If you’re using an EMF meter, explain to the

ghost how it works. Tell the ghost to
approach the meter so it signals to you. You
may also need to explain that it’s not
dangerous, or -- with a K-II meter -- tell the
ghost to make the lights turn orange or red.

Then, ask simple, yes/no questions. For

example, you can ask, “Are you female?”
“Are you an adult?” “Did you live in this
house?” “Were you just visiting here?”
“Were you born in the 1800s?”

Note: Some ghosts are more

concerned with the house than what
you’re saying. At haunted Tenney
Gate House in Methuen,
Massachusetts, the ghost (or ghosts)
in one room only responded to
questions about the lights being on or
off.

In other words, your ghost may not

share any helpful information with you.

94
Other paranormal resources

There are other ways to discern information

about a ghost. I do not recommend any of
them, except in extreme cases and in the
hands of respected professional
researchers.

Those methods include automatic writing,

trance mediumship, Ouija boards, and other
divinatory tools.

Every one of those methods invites a spirit to

use your body to communicate. Once that
door is opened, even a little bit, there are
risks.

Do not try this casually, or on your own.

Other historical resources

As any family history library will tell you,

there are a wealth of records to help you
understand who lived in your house… and
who may haunt it.

One of the best -- usually searched by

professional genealogists -- may be probate
records. Wills often record the true feelings
of each person who wrote one. They know
the will won’t be read until after they’re gone,
so that’s where they vent.

95
If you conduct probate research yourself,
check property disputes and other court
records while you’re at the courthouse. You
may discover a running argument between
two neighbors, and they’re both haunting --
and maintaining their claims -- after death.

Peace of mind

Once you know who your ghost is, and

whether or not the ghost is upset or “just
visiting,” you’ll probably feel more
comfortable in your haunted home.

Also remember that we have evidence that

some “ghosts” are alive in their own worlds,
parallel to ours. In fact, some of them
perceive us in their worlds, and they think
we’re the ghosts.

Knowing this kind of information can put your

mind at rest, and enable you to live in
harmony with your ghosts.

96
Weather and seasonal
influences

Weather and changing seasons can explain

many odd and startling phenomena.

Animals can behave strangely shortly before

a storm arrives. They’re not always reacting
to ghosts.

Some people are sensitive to barometric

changes, too. They’ll complain of
unexplained aches and pains, or feel worried
or sad.

When the storm breaks, they feel relief.

97
Dry heat and damp weather

Your house and floorboards may creak

dramatically for days, weeks, or even a
month after you first turn on the heat for the
winter.

Doors, no longer swollen tightly in their

frames, can seem to open or close on their
own. They’ll rattle more when the wind
blows, too.

Likewise, when humid weather returns,

floorboards can creak again. Doors
suddenly seem to resist you.

As humidity increases, your basement,

kitchen and bathrooms may acquire mold
and mildew in areas you rarely see.

If you use a humidifier, vaporizer, or

dehumidifier, they can affect sounds and
smells around your home, too.

Ice can work its way into your roof, or into

the exterior or foundation of your home. As
it expands and contracts, strange noises can
result.

Basement walls can produce odd noises as

the ground next to them freezes.

98
Basement stairs can swell with humidity, or
shrink when a furnace dries them out.
Walking on those stairs can seem different
or even disorienting, compared with what
you’re used to.

Check with your neighbors. Ask if they’re

having similar issues in their homes.

Woodstoves, barbecues and fireplaces

If you or a neighbor has a woodstove or

fireplace, the particulate in the smoke can
trigger allergies, headaches and sometimes
disorientation.

If someone uses a barbecue, the lighter fluid

or heat source (gas, coal, wood or trash) can
also present issues with some people.

Rarely, I have seen people become irritable

for no apparent reason, until they discovered
that an allergy had been triggered by an
unexpected source.

It’s not usually enough to make someone

think his home is haunted, but -- combined
with other odd events -- it could be a
contributing factor.

99
Seasonal Affected Disorder

When people move from a sunny climate to

an area where clouds are normal, they may
not realize the impact of the change.

Depression can result. In turn, that can lead

to a variety of issues that can seem like a
haunting or even demonic influences.

Climate issues

In recent years, climates have changed

slightly. Just a few degrees difference --
higher or lower -- can dramatically change
how a house responds.

We’ve seen record-breaking heat and cold in

some areas. Water tables have risen in
some regions, increasing humidity and
affecting the foundations of houses.

So, though your house never made these

noises before, temperature and humidity
changes might explain them now.

Recent weather changes must always be

considered when evaluating a site for
ghosts.

100
Evaluate hot and cold spots

Haunted houses are famous for having “cold

spots.” (Hot spots are rare, but they do
occur.)

Those are defined areas where the

temperature seems more than five degrees
higher or lower that the space around it.
You can usually feel it by holding your hands
in the cold spot.

In paranormal studies, some people believe

that cold represents an area where the ghost
might be drawing energy.

101
However, there is no evidence that a cold
spot indicates something evil.

Likewise, misty breath does not indicate that

a ghost is nearby. That only happens in the
movies… or if someone’s playing a prank.

Is it really cold?

Measure the cold spot.

The biggest mistake is using a point-and-

shoot device that measures the temperature
of objects, not the air. Be sure that your
thermometer measures ambient air
temperature.

If it’s significantly (at least five to ten

degrees) higher or lower than the area
around it, start looking for normal
explanations. Generally, the movement of a
candle flame will indicate a draft from
outside or from the a/c.

If there’s no reasonable explanation why one

small area (usually just a couple of feet in
diameter, or less) is cold or hot, it can
suggest a haunting.

Check with a home heating expert before

jumping to conclusions.

102
Poltergeists and emotional
ghosts

Poltergeists are literally noisy ghosts.

Today, that term refers to unexplained
noises, moving objects, ghostly slaps, and
similar, prankish activity.

Poltergeists are annoying, but not demonic.

This subject is very controversial. Many

professionals believe that the problems are
created by someone (not a ghost) in the
vicinity using psychokinesis, a form of ESP
that enables them to create physical
phenomena.

103
Others think that a ghost may be involved,
drawing energy from anyone on an
emotional or hormonal roller coaster.
Usually -- but not always -- that’s a teenage
girl.

The effects seem to continue, even when the

energy source (such as the teen) is as far as
five miles away.

At this point, we’ve seen the best results

when the emotional person receives
counselling.

We’ve also noticed a direct relationship

between the presence of water (sometimes
unexplained) and poltergeist activity.

Keep sharp objects in cabinets or drawers.

This is especially true in rooms where water
is often present, such as kitchens,
bathrooms and darkrooms.

It’s important to remember there is no

evidence of a ghost killing anyone, ever.
Despite folklore such as the Bell Witch story,
there’s significant evidence that injuries were
caused by a living person, not a ghost.

If poltergeist activity is an issue, you may

need to speak with a professional about it.

104
Demons and possession

Some TV shows and movies thrive by

popularizing demons and possessions.

In real life, demons are extremely rare, and

they don’t resemble the hype in the media.

Let’s say that 50% of homes that seem

haunted actually are haunted. That’s a very
high estimate; frankly, I think the number
should be 20% at the most.

105
Of the houses that are actually haunted, an
average of 20% involve ghosts. The rest are
usually residual energy (imprint) hauntings.

Among houses haunted by ghosts, I’d guess

than less than 1% involve evil or malicious
entities. Even fewer represent demonic
energy.

In other words, for every 1000 (yes, one

thousand) houses that seem haunted, less
than one home will have an evil entity… and
even that one probably isn’t a demon.

To put this in a clearer perspective:

Between 1968 and 1974, respected exorcist
Father Henri Gesland, investigated about
3000 documented cases that appeared to be
demonic possessions.

Only four of them were actual possessions.

The rest were lesser problems that did not
require exorcisms.

Most people should not worry about

demons, evil entities, or possession.

Demons and ghosts

There are a few key things to remember

about demons.

106
First of all, an angry or territorial ghost is not
a demon.

A ghost is someone who was once in human

form, but has died.

Many people believe that demons were

never human. They’re another group
altogether.

If you want to learn about demons, most TV

shows and movies aren’t good resources.

One of the most extensive encyclopedias

about demons was compiled by Rosemary
Ellen Guiley.

I also recommend anything written by John

Zaffis. He’s among the world’s leading
demonologists.

If you have an opportunity to hear Ms. Guiley

or Mr. Zaffis speak, do.

Other respected experts in demonology

include Father Andrew Calder and Carl &
Keith Johnson.

Peter Haviland has a broad background in

poltergeist phenomena that can look
demonic.

107
Of course, many religions offer helpful
information about demons and related
topics.

Generally, it’s best to start with the oldest

and most historically based information.
Avoid sensational reports and books that are
intended to bring attention, notoriety, and/or
income to the people behind them.

Also, if you’re truly fascinated with demons,

Native American folklore -- particularly from
Central and South America -- may present
the most colorful history of demons. Though
folklore may be symbolic, important clues
are hidden there.

Possession

Possession is one of the last stages of a

demon attack. Long before that occurs,
there are huge warning signs that something
strange and dangerous is going on.

Most demonologists list two to six major

stages (plus many lesser steps) that occur
before a demon takes control of someone.

You aren’t likely to wake up one morning

and suddenly discover -- with no warning --
that a friend or family member is possessed.

108
Likewise, a single incident isn’t likely to
result in a possession.

Almost always, there were plenty of events

that let everyone know that something very
dangerous was going on, and professional
help of some kind was needed.

Witches, Wiccans and demons

Witchcraft and Wicca are two different

practices. Neither worship the Devil in any
form. Many don’t believe in the Devil or
demons, either.

(The exception is when someone practices

witchcraft but believes in a religion other
than Wicca. They’re even less likely to
involve anything demonic in their practices.)

Witches and Wiccans don’t summon

demons.

People who are simply playing with Pagan

beliefs and practices can summon
something they didn’t intend to. That’s a
different matter.

However, established and traditional Pagan

covens, circles, groves and churches should
not concern you.

109
Trance mediums

Some people allow spirits to speak or act

through them. You’ve probably seen them
on TV; Derek Acorah (from TV shows such
as Most Haunted, UK) has worked as a
trance medium.

Generally, I advise against allowing any

entity to “borrow” your voice, your mind or
your body. Once you open that door, it can
be difficult to close.

Though it is unlikely that you’ll encounter a

demon through trance mediumship, it’s still a
risky practice.

If the warning signs are there

If you think that a demon is involved, contact

someone working in a religious profession
immediately.

It’s better to look foolish or paranoid than to

take a chance.

A demon is a spirit, albeit not a human spirit.

You’ll need someone with a spiritual
background -- and an understanding of
demons -- to help you.

110
You do not need to be a member of that
church (or even believe in it) to ask them for
help.

Many people turn first to Episcopalian

ministers or Catholic priests, but other
religions have expertise in the field of
demons and exorcisms.

In most cases, the priest, minister, rabbi or

other religious person will listen to you and
give you basic advice. If that’s not helpful,
he or she will refer you to someone else --
usually someone specific -- in the field.

Demonologists and exorcists

Demonologists have experience in the

paranormal field. They may specialize in
“diagnosing” whether something might be a
demon, and they can help you prevent
things from getting worse.

They are not necessarily exorcists.

Exorcists help to remove the demon from the

person and/or the environment. They are
usually full-time religious priests or ministers.
They are not necessarily demonologists.

Demonologists and exorcists usually work as

a team.

111
Recommended resources

If you are unable to find the help you need in

your community, look for someone widely
respected for their work in the field of
demonology.

Keep in mind: This is a very dangerous

profession. Amateurs (and even some
professionals) are always at risk of being
overcome by demonic energy.

The following people are those I trust most in

this field.

John Zaffis
Paranormal Research Society of New England
(203) 375-6083

Father Andrew Calder

Dublin, Georgia
http://www.myspace.com/andrewcalder

Carl & Keith Johnson

New England Anomalies Research & Investigation
http://www.nearparanormal.com/

112
Orbs and ghost photos

Never start with an orb photo -- or any other

odd photo -- and then go looking for ghosts.

Every day, people send me photos of orbs,

strange misty figures, or even double
exposures (or Photoshop’d images) and ask
if that’s a ghost.

Without a lot of other evidence to support it,

a “ghost photo” (or even a series of photos)
doesn’t mean that you have a ghost.

113
Especially indoors, orbs are common in
photos. Before flatscreen computer
monitors became popular, I’d receive three
to five photos of orbs every day that seemed
to haunt the person’s computer.

In fact, monitors -- and any shiny surface

including glass, metal, polished wood, or
mirrors -- can reflect the flash of a camera
and create orbs in a photograph.

Those aren’t ghosts.

Orbs and other “ghost photos” can also be

explained as dust, insects, or moisture, both
indoors and out.

Orbs in basement photos are usually the

result of humidity. Orbs in attics are usually
bits of dust stirred up as people move
around the room.

By contrast, smoke isn’t usually a problem in

photos, but incense can be.

Misty areas in outdoor photos are usually

early evidence of fog arriving, not ghosts.

Indoors, see if the picture was taken near an

air freshener that sprays a mist regularly.

114
Odd streaks in photos aren’t usually “ghost
portals” or examples of a “vortex.” They’re
usually a piece of hair that fell in front of the
lens.

The following photo -- from my book, Ghost

Photography 101 -- shows two pieces of
hair, nothing paranormal.

Never worry that you have a ghost in your

home, just because you or a friend took a
photo and it has a strange image in it.

In professional ghost research, we never

claim that an orb photo is proof of a
haunting. We look for far more reliable
evidence.

115
In general, we don’t know what causes
anomalies (odd, unexplained things) in
photos and in videos.

Even when an orb (or other image) can’t be

explained in logical or normal terms, we still
don’t know that it’s actually a ghost.

We only know that we see more unexplained

orbs (and other anomalies) in photos taken a
places that have other, major evidence of
ghosts.

Other than that, we’re still guessing why

unexplained images show up in some
photos. Anyone who claims that an orb is
definitely a ghost, or a line in a photo is
surely a vortex, ectoplasm or something else
paranormal… that’s either wishful thinking or
an overactive imagination.

An orb may indicate that a loved one is

visiting you from the other side. If that make
sense to you and it’s comforting, that’s
wonderful. You may be absolutely correct
about that, and you’re the only one who can
decide.

However, if you see an orb in a photo that

was taken in or near your home, and it
worries you… there is no reason to be
alarmed. It’s probably dust or a bug.

116
Provoking

Provoking means to antagonize a spirit so it

responds and its activity can be observed.

To evoke a response, one or more

investigators will shout at, challenge, tease
or taunt the ghost. The language can be
abusive and it’s almost always harsh.

Provoking is a practice of last resort. I never

use it.

However, there are some situations where

it’s necessary.

117
If a team is investigating a house and they
find no evidence of anything odd or
paranormal, they may try provoking the
ghost (or ghosts) into reacting. That may be
the only practical way to determine if a
house is or isn’t haunted.

(Instead, I bring a team member who’s

jokingly called “ghostbait.” If he’s with me,
any ghosts will make themselves known.)

Provoking is rude. It should never be used

in a situation where it’s not absolutely
necessary.

Taunting or challenging a spirit is never

smart. It’s mean, cruel and it can be
dangerous.

Generally, ghosts aren’t there to entertain

us. (One exception might be theatre ghosts,
but they rarely need encouragement -- or
provoking -- to manifest.)

If someone is going to provoke the ghosts in

your home, that person must be prepared to
deal with the after-effects. It’s inconsiderate
to taunt ghosts, and then leave the
homeowner to deal with the angry spirits.

118
If you witness provoking in your home and it
wasn’t previously discussed, stop the
investigation immediately. Insist that the
team tell you what they’ll do to resolve the
problem before they leave your home.

If they don’t have a plan that’s reliable and

will leave your home as peaceful as they
found it, they should not provoke.

What to do after provocation

Sometimes people unintentionally provoke a

ghost. The spirit may not like the light on, or
a chair moved. She may feel that a certain
room is “hers,” as seen in the haunted
carriage house at the Spalding Inn, in
Whitefield, New Hampshire.

Sometimes, the easiest way to resolve the

ghost’s anger or anxiety is to leave the ghost
alone.

However, if someone comes into your home

and deliberately provokes your ghosts, be
sure they’ll return immediately if problems
continue for more than an hour after they’ve
left.

Sometimes, an apology is necessary. The

apology might have to be profuse to the

119
point of silliness. Some ghosts seem to be
very sensitive.

The person doing the taunting may need to

promise never to return… and then stay
away.

The resolutions vary from case to case. It’s

important never to allow provoking unless
the person agrees to smooth things over,
afterward.

Are you being provoked?

As I’ve said earlier, we have evidence that

some ghosts aren’t actually spirits of anyone
that’s deceased. They’re living people in a
parallel world or dimension. They just
happen to perceive us, or vice versa.

It’s possible that what you think is an angry

ghost or a poltergeist is actually someone in
another realm, trying to get a response from
you.

I’m not sure that’s likely, but it’s worth

considering.

Meanwhile, I don’t recommend provoking

except in extreme cases, and under the
supervision of a respected professional.

120
Why some ghosts haunt
houses

Why do some ghosts haunt houses?

The honest answer is: We don’t know. We

can’t even prove that ghosts exist -- not
using repeatable, scientific methods, that is.

However, with logic, historical research and

sometimes insights from psychic mediums,
we can provide educated guesses.

The vast majority of ghosts can be

separated into two categories: Those who

121
don’t believe they’re dead, and those who
are visiting us happily, by choice.

Those who don’t (or won’t) accept that

they’ve died can be the most difficult.

They have unfinished business, they think

they “deserve” to live longer, or they’re
terrified of what’s waiting on the other side.

In the next section, we’ll talk about helping

them cross over.

The other group of spirits are here for happy

and/or benevolent reasons. Many people
prefer to call them spirits, not ghosts.

In folklore, a ghostly woman in a green dress

or gown watches over the house and those
who live in it.

A ghostly woman in white is either a

disappointed bride, or -- more often -- she is
similar to a Banshee: She’s there to protect
your family from harm.

Though some ghosts have neither

unfinished business nor a happy reason to
remain here, they seem to do so anyway.

We don’t have all the answers. That’s one

reason why we continue our research.

122
Crossing over

When you’re dealing with a ghost, you may

want to help that spirit “cross over.”

Keep two things in mind:

First, many ghosts do not believe that they’re

dead. In most cases, you can’t convince
them that they are.

Quantum studies suggest that some “ghosts”

may actually be alive in their own parallel
worlds, in their own eras. They don’t need to
cross over.

123
We simply perceive them in our world and in
our time. Sometimes, they perceive us, too,
and think that we’re the ghosts.

In addition, many spirits are here for a

reason. They can “cross over” at any time.

They may be here to revisit a favorite

location. They might want to visit friends,
family and descendants, and see if they can
be helpful.

A very small number of ghosts have

unfinished business. You may be able to
help them, but most want to accomplish
something that is now impossible.

(Remember the movie, “Heaven Can Wait,”

in which the deceased wanted to play in the
big football game. In real life, he’d have to
accept what had happened.)

Well-meaning people sometimes hire

mediums to help their ghost “cross over.”

Keep your money in your wallet. Most

genuine mediums provide this kind of
service as a ministry, and don’t charge for it,
or they simply charge for travel expenses.

If you’d like to become a medium, there are

many good books and courses that will help

124
you. See HollowHill.com for
recommendations.

Unfortunately, some teachers, books and

courses -- though well-intended -- can
mislead you or teach you nothing at all.

If you don’t feel a strong spiritual connection

and enrichment from what you are studying,
stop immediately.

There are tools being developed that can

help you communicate directly with ghosts.

DigitalDowsing.com is one company working

in this field. Some people use the K-II EMF
meter or even a loosely adjusted flashlight
for this purpose, too.

Christopher Moon has tremendous success

with the “Telephone to the Dead.” If you
have an opportunity to see Chris at an event,
his work is astonishing.

However, remember that you can talk out

loud to ghosts on your own, and most of
them will hear you.

You may need to rephrase things to fit the

vocabulary of their era, but you can
communicate with them.

125
You don’t need to be a medium or hire one.
You can talk directly to your ghosts, and
sometimes see results.

Remember, even if the ghost is unhappy,

you may not be able to help them cross
over.

In time, they will probably understand that

it’s better to move on, and let the past fade
into memory.

Until they reach that decision on their own,

logic and persuasion may not make a
difference.

126
Feng Shui for haunted
houses

Some paranormal researchers use Feng

Shui techniques for space clearing,
especially when the house has a residual
energy haunting.

Feng Shui -- like yoga -- is not a religion,

though both have roots in spiritual beliefs.

Many people believe that Feng Shui is

probably based on scientific principles that
we don’t understand yet.

127
Feng Shui can be a complex study in itself.
However, if you’re dealing with a haunted
house, Feng Shui techniques may help you.

About 80% of all hauntings seem to be the

result of residual energy.

By “space clearing” the house (see pages 47

- 48) you will probably notice an
improvement.

In addition to those techniques, here are a

few other ways to improve the flow of energy
in your home to reduce residual energy
hauntings.

First, remove all clutter. It represents your

own past, or the history of a previous
resident. The “energy echo” of clutter seems
to renew residual energy, too.

If that much cleaning sounds overwhelming,

start with the area that’s on your right as
people enter your home. In one successful
Western form of Feng Shui, that’s the area
most directly associated with spiritual
energy.

After that, weed out your “junk room” if you

have one. (It may be your garage.) In Feng
Shui, that’s like a huge battery pack that
could fuel a residual energy haunting.

128
Reposition every decoration in your home
that is above eye level. Even if it couldn’t
actually fall onto anyone, the imagery can
contribute to anxiety. As much as you can,
place objects at eye level, or lower.

Finally, walk through your home and pretend

you’re twice as large (or fat) as you currently
are, and you’re wearing a delicate silk robe.

If anything would slow you down or snag the

silk, move that object further out of your
path.

The idea is to create a wide path for energy

to flow gracefully and easily through your
home.

Those are optional ways to deal with

residual energy. If you don’t like the idea of
using Feng Shui, don’t use it.

Most people find relief from residual energy

if they reduce clutter and create a more
spacious feeling in their homes.

Feng Shui is one of many ways to achieve

that.

129
Summary

Ghost-themed TV shows and movies have

become popular. As a result, many people
wonder if their houses are haunted, too.

Most houses are not haunted. The “ghost”

problems can be explained (and fixed) by
checking the house for electrical, plumbing,
gas, and structural issues.

When no normal explanations can be found,

it may be a residual energy haunting. That’s
still not a ghost, and most cases can be
resolved easily.

Even if your house is haunted by a ghost,

most ghosts are friendly or even helpful. A
sympathetic professional (such as your
minister) may offer coping skills.

If your house might be haunted and you’re

concerned about your health (physical or
emotional) or safety, get help immediately.

Don’t wait. Call someone right now. A

church in your community is a good place to
start.

In addition to a spiritual approach, a

common-sense investigation by paranormal
professionals may help, too.

130
Here’s what to remember:

1. Most houses -- even those that seem

haunted at first -- do not harbor ghosts.

2. Most ghosts aren’t dangerous.

When you understand what’s going on, and

what’s real (and fake) about ghost stories
and ghost-related TV shows, hauntings
becomes less frightening.

131
Supplementary reading

The following sections were added to this

new edition, in response to frequent
questions.

These notes are starting points for your own

research into more technical aspects of
ghost hunting.

Experience Inducing Fields - Page 133

Fear cages - Page 135

Learning from “Philip” - Page 136

Edited from Wikipedia:

Carbon monoxide - Page 139

Electromagnetic field (EMF) - Page140
Faraday Cage - Page 141
Poltergeists - Page 142

132
Experience Inducing Fields (EIFs)

Experience-inducing field, or EIF, is a term

introduced by Dr. Jason Braithwaite, a
cognitive psychologist and neuroscientist
from the University of Birmingham.

Dr. Braithwaite did groundbreaking research

at England’s Muncaster Castle, the site of
many reported hauntings.

The term “EIF” refers to any field that could

be responsible for inducing a particular
experience. Dr. Braithwaite’s early research
suggested a connection between locations
with magnetically remarkable signatures and
repeated haunt-type experiences.

EIFs include sites with high levels of EMF.

We know they can create emotional, mental
and physical distress.

Infrasound is an issue. I’ve talked often

about the relationship between hauntings —
particularly poltergeist activity — and
underground streams, and water in general.

Geomagnetic fields (GMFs) are practically

missing from most paranormal discussions.
We need to include these in our surveys,
and consider them as we evaluate others’
reports and our own apparent experiences.

133
Early studies suggest that 20 - 30% of
people can be affected by this kind of
magnetic anomaly.

However, I’m going to ask something radical:

What if those fields don’t just affect some
researchers. What if those fields also act as
beacons for… well, whatever’s reported at
the location?

Whether or not the beacon concept has any

merit, we need to examine EIFs more
closely.

For example, they may explain some or all of

the paranormal patterns -- including “ley
lines” -- that I’m currently plotting and
studying.

Before we assume that anything is actually a

ghost, the subject of EIFs needs far greater
exploration.

Recommended reading

Magnetic Hallucinations, by Maurice Townsend

http://www.assap.org/newsite/articles/Magnetic%
20ghosts.html

Research Note: Sleeping with the Entity, by

Jason Braithwaite and Maurice Townsend.
http://bham.academia.edu/JasonJBraithwaite/Pap
ers/242948/Sleeping_with_the_Entity

134
Fear cages

The combination of elevated EMF

(electromagnetic fields) and a confined area
seems to produce anxiety and/or unusual
reactions in some people.

Examples include a basement, closet,

bathroom, or other small room with high
EMF levels.

They’re sometimes nicknamed “fear cages,”

a term popularized when Jason Hawes and
Grant Wilson used it, particularly during the
Season Four (2008) episode of Ghost
Hunters, called “The Fear Cage.”

To deal with a “fear cage,” you’ll probably

need to address both issues (EMF and
sense of confinement).

First, check for EMF levels, discussed in

Chapter 3.

After resolving the EMF issues, you may

need to relieve the sense of confinement or
claustrophobia in that room. Light (or no)
curtains or window shades can help. Paint
the room a light color.

Add posters or art with pleasant scenery,

too.

135
Learning from “Philip”

In my opinion, “hauntings” may be caused by

a variety of circumstances, influences, and
entities.

A significant study was documented in the

1976 book, “Conjuring Up Philip.” This
remarkable work was based on a Canadian
project by the Toronto Society Of Psychical
Research. (That book is currently out of print
and difficult to find.)

The group deliberately created a possible

(but fictional and error-filled) biography for
Philip, an imaginary aristocratic Englishman
from the 17th century.

Then, the group attempted to cause Philip to

manifest as a ghost.

For months, nothing happened. Then,

“Philip” began to knock on a table, once for
yes or twice for no.

Significant physical evidence followed, and

was documented in the 1974 film, “Philip:
The Imaginary Ghost.”

If that magnitude of phenomena can result

from the deliberate efforts of people who
know that there was no Philip, what could

136
happen when people firmly believe in a
particular ghost?

As we explore the real explanations for

hauntings, we must consider the influence of
the people on-site.

That’s not to make less of what they’re

experiencing. The “Philip” evidence was
astonishing.

However, when we’re looking for the cause

of a haunting and how to relieve it, all
possibilities must be considered.

137
Carbon monoxide
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_monoxide

Carbon monoxide (CO), also called

carbonous oxide, is a colorless, odorless
and tasteless gas that is slightly lighter than
air. It is highly toxic to humans and animals
in higher quantities. It is also produced in
normal animal metabolism in low quantities,
and is thought to have some normal
biological functions.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is the most

common type of fatal air poisoning in many
countries. Carbon monoxide is colorless,
odorless and tasteless, but highly toxic.
Concentrations as low as 667 ppm may
cause up to 50% of the body's hemoglobin to
convert to carboxyhemoglobin. A level of
50% carboxyhemoglobin may result in
seizure, coma, and fatality. In the United
States, the OSHA limits long-term workplace
exposure levels above 50 ppm.

The most common symptoms of carbon

monoxide poisoning may resemble other
types of poisonings and infections, including
symptoms such as headache, nausea,
vomiting, dizziness, fatigue and a feeling of
weakness. Infants may be irritable and feed
poorly. Neurological signs include confusion,

138
disorientation, visual disturbance, syncope
and seizures.

Some descriptions of carbon monoxide

poisoning include retinal hemorrhages, and
an abnormal cherry-red blood hue. In most
clinical diagnoses, these signs are seldom
seen.

Carbon monoxide binds to other molecules

such as myoglobin and mitochondrial
cytochrome oxidase. Exposures to carbon
monoxide may cause significant damage to
the heart and central nervous system,
especially to the globus pallidus, often with
long-term sequelae. Carbon monoxide may
have severe adverse effects on the fetus of
a pregnant woman.

Electromagnetic Field (EMF)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electromagnetic_field

An electromagnetic field (also EMF or EM

field) is a physical field produced by
electrically charged objects. It affects the
behavior of charged objects in the vicinity of
the field. The electromagnetic field extends
indefinitely throughout space and describes
the electromagnetic interaction. It is one of
the four fundamental forces of nature (the
others are gravitation, the weak interaction,
and the strong interaction).

139
The field can be viewed as the combination
of an electric field and a magnetic field. The
electric field is produced by stationary
charges, and the magnetic field by moving
charges (currents); these two are often
described as the sources of the field.
Maxwell’s equations and the Lorentz force
law describe the way in which charges and
currents interact with the electromagnetic
field.

From a classical perspective, the

electromagnetic field can be regarded as a
smooth, continuous field, propagated in a
wavelike manner; whereas from the
perspective of quantum field theory, the field
is seen as quantized, being composed of
individual particles.

Properties of the field

The two Maxwell equations, Faraday's Law

and the Ampère-Maxwell Law, illustrate a
very practical feature of the electromagnetic
field Faraday's Law may be stated roughly
as 'a changing magnetic field creates an
electric field'. This is the principle behind the
electric generator.

The Law roughly states that 'a changing

electric field creates a magnetic field'. Thus,

140
this law can be applied to generate a
magnetic field and run an electric motor.

Faraday Cage
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Faraday_cage

Fear cages and Faraday cages are

sometimes confused. It’s important to know
the difference.

A Faraday cage or Faraday shield is an

enclosure formed by conducting material or
by a mesh of such material. Such an
enclosure blocks out external static electric
fields. Faraday cages are named after the
English scientist Michael Faraday, who
invented them in 1836.

However, Faraday cages cannot block static

and slowly varying magnetic fields, such as
Earth's magnetic field (a compass will still
work inside).

History

In 1836, Michael Faraday observed that the

charge on a charged conductor resided only
on its exterior and had no influence on
anything enclosed within it. To demonstrate
this fact, he built a room coated with metal
foil and allowed high-voltage discharges
from an electrostatic generator to strike the

141
outside of the room. He used an
electroscope to show that there was no
electric charge present on the inside of the
room's walls.

Although this cage effect has been attributed

to Michael Faraday, it was probably
Benjamin Franklin in 1755 who first
observed the effect.

Other notes

A microwave oven is a kind of Faraday cage,

blocking energy from within it.

Poltergeists
Edited from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Poltergeist

A Poltergeist is traditionally described as a

troublesome spirit or ghost that moves
objects.

Typically, poltergeists also make loud,

unexplainable noises.

The word, "Poltergeist", comes from German

poltern, meaning "to rumble", "to make a
noise" and Geist, meaning "ghost" or "spirit".

Poltergeist manifestations have been

reported in many cultures, in all European
nations, United States, Japan, Brazil and

142
other countries. They are often thought to be
connected with teenagers. The amounts of
negative energy seem to act like a magnet
for these poltergeists to feed on and are
manifested by telekinetic abilities.

Lithobolia (1698)

Lithobolia, or the Stone-Throwing Devil, is a

pamphlet that records poltergeist activity that
took place in the tavern of George and Alice
Walton in 1682. Two copies of the pamphlet
exist in the British Museum. The Waltons'
tavern was located in New Castle, New
Hampshire, then known as the Great Island.

Lithobolia was written by Richard

Chamberlain, the secretary of the colony of
New Hampshire. In 1682, Chamberlain was
boarding at the Walton tavern and witnessed
the attack. The pamphlet was printed in
London in 1698. The opening reads:

"Lithobolia, or stone throwing Devil. Being an

Exact and True account (by way of Journal)
of the various actions of infernal Spirits or
(Devils Incarnate) Witches or both: and the
great Disturbance and Amazement they
gave to George Walton's family at a place
called Great Island in the county of New
Hampshire in New England, chiefly in
throwing about (by an Invisible hand)

143
Stones, Bricks, and Brick-Bats of all sizes,
with several other things, as Hammers,
Mauls, Iron-Crows, Spits, and other Utensils,
as came into their Hellish minds, and this for
space of a quarter of a year."

Borley Rectory (1937)

William Roll, Hans Bender, and Harry Price

are perhaps three of the most famous
poltergeist investigators in the annals of
parapsychology. Harry Price investigated
Borley Rectory, which is often called "the
most haunted house in England."

Rosenheim, Germany (1967)

Dr. Friedbert Karger was one of two

physicists from the Max Planck Institute who
helped to investigate perhaps the most
validated poltergeist case in recorded
history.

Annemarie Schneider, a 19-year-old

secretary in a law firm in Rosenheim (a town
in southern Germany) was seemingly the
unwitting cause of much chaos and
controversy in the firm, including disruption
of electricity and telephone lines, the rotation
of a picture, swinging lamps which were
captured on video, and strange sounds that
sounded electrical in origin.

144
Fraud was not proven despite intensive
investigation by physicists, journalists and
the police. The effects moved with the young
woman when she changed jobs until they
finally faded out, disappeared, and never
recurred.

Dr. Karger's whole perspective on physics

changed after investigating the events.

"These experiments were really a challenge

to physics," Karger says today. "What we
saw in the Rosenheim case could be 100
per cent shown not to be explainable by
known physics."

The phenomena were witnessed by Hans

Bender, the police force, the CID, reporters,
and the physicists. The BBC made the case
into a documentary in 1975 as part of a TV
series called "Leap in the Dark".

Fiona’s notes

I shared my views of poltergeists in

Appendix section 29, page 103. However,
some of this information is worth repeating:

Some paranormal researchers believe that

poltergeist phenomena are wholly caused by
someone living, using a form of
psychokinesis.

145
Others believe that the activity is entirely
created by a ghost or spirit.

Many (including me) believe that it may be a

combination of an emotional (living) person
and a mischievous entity.

Poltergeists can injure people but there are

no documented deaths caused by them.

Poltergeists seem to manifest more often

(but not exclusively) around teenage girls
and women “of a certain age.” Counseling
can be useful.

Poltergeist activity is also more common

near water such as underground streams, as
well as in kitchens and bathrooms, and near
fish tanks.

The activity can occur while the (living)

energy source is miles away or even asleep.

Generally, you simply need patience. The

activity will stop by itself, eventually.

146
Photo credits
Some pictures were modified. All
were cropped to fit the page.

Front cover by Fiona Broome, using

a photo by atsbvtw of Bedford, NY.

Chapter 1: Is my house haunted?

Title page: Dan O’Connell, Ireland,
egomedia.com
1. Typofi, Finland
2. Chris Greene, Norway
3. Mike Munchel, PA, USA
4 & 5. Thomas Bush, PA, USA
6 & 7. Pam Roth, USA, creatingonline.com
8. Stephen Gibson, Australia, budgetstockphoto.com
9. Lillian Nelson, USA
10. Thomas Bush, PA, USA

Chapter 2: Coping with a haunted house

Title page: E.H. Pickering, Haunted house at U.S. Route 50,
Cambridge, Maryland, USA (aka Shoal Creek House)
1. Chris Greene, Norway
2. Fiona Broome, based on a photo by Thomas Bush, PA, USA
3. Pam Roth, USA, creatingonline.com
4. OGGHOO
5. Fiona Broome, FionaBroome.com
6. Asif Akbar, India
7. Donna Adenine, MI, USA
8. antixstar, UK
9. Ove Topfer, Norway
10. Thomas Bush, PA, USA
11. Jade Colley, Australia

Chapter 3: Who can help?

Title page: Fiona Broome, based on a photo by Lonnie Bradley, TX,
USA. Find a professional: J. Gabriel, Switzerland

Appendix - Title page: Horton Group, hortongroup.com. What not to

do: US gov’t photo, Houston Tavern, Arrow Rock State Park, MO.
Crossing over: Jamie Brelsford, UK, photo of Whitby Abbey. Feng
Shui: Fiona Broome, photo of Spalding Inn, Whitefield, NH, USA.

Fiona Broome’s portrait: P. Todd Richardson, Portsmouth, NH

Camera on this page: Benjamin Earwicker, ID, USA,
garrisonphoto.org

147
 Copyright and License information

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148
About the author

Fiona Fitzgerald Broome is an author, researcher, and a

paranormal analyst.

Ms. Broome may be best known as the founder of one of

the Internet’s oldest, largest and most respected
paranormal websites, HollowHill.com

Fiona describes herself as a “blip analyst.” Her specialty

is identifying the history and patterns that result in ghost
reports, anomalies and -- perhaps -- paranormal artifacts.

In 2008, Haunted Times magazine recognized Fiona

Broome in its elite (and brief) list of “respected members
of the paranormal community.”

Fiona is the author of several books, including The

Ghosts of Austin, Texas (2007, Schiffer Books), Ghost
Hunting in Haunted Cemeteries (2009, New Forest
Books), and Paragenealogy (2010, New Forest Books).

As of 2011, she is working on her next two regional

books for Schiffer, about Salem (MA) and New Orleans.
Her other 2011 books include Ghost Photography 101,
Paranormal Patterns and The Mandela Effect.

Fiona was raised in Belmont, Massachusetts and

researches in the United States, Canada, the U.K. and
Ireland. She appears at just a few, carefully selected
conferences and conventions each year, such as
Dragon*Con in Atlanta, Georgia.

149
If you enjoyed this book and you’d like to say “thank
you” to Fiona, consider these options:

Tell her. Write to Fiona@HollowHill.com

Tell your friends about this book. Mention it
in forums. Post a copy at your website, or at
least link to the free PDF.
Purchase a copy for your public library, for a
friend, for a local ghost hunting team, or for
yourself. (By mid-December 2010, this book
will be available at Amazon.com and through
HollowHill.com.)

Start a revolution in paranormal research: Make

sure others know what’s in this book. Encourage
them to use it. They won’t learn these research
techniques from TV shows, and a common-sense
approach is vital to successful ghost investigations
and paranormal research.

To learn more about Fiona Broome, visit

FionaBroome.com

To learn about ghost hunting, see HollowHill.com

For more books about ghosts and paranormal

research, visit our website
NewForestBooks.com

150
Index
Johnson, Keith, 56, 82,
Acorah, Derek, 110 107, 112
allergies, 27, 99 minister, 62, 67, 72, 75, 80,
animals, 29, 30, 77, 85, 86, 86, 111
97 mirrors, 59, 60, 84, 114
pets, 85 mold, 22, 27, 28, 32, 38,
pigs, 86 98
Banshee, 66, 122 money, 39, 90, 91, 124
blessing, 52, 86 Native American, 108
Calder, Andrew (Fr.), 56, noises, 22, 30, 31, 32, 34,
82, 107, 112 38, 51, 98, 100, 103
children, 40, 63, 64 orbs, 113, 115, 116
clutter, 128, 129 Ouija boards, 80, 81, 95
cold spots, 77, 101, 102 plumbing, 21, 22, 31
danger, 49, 79, 80 poltergeists, 3, 34, 64, 77,
demonologists, 56, 72, 82 103, 104, 120
demons, 36, 46, 55, 72, possession, 108
82, 100, 103, 105, 106, provoking, 75, 77, 117,
107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 118, 119, 120
112 quartz, 58
diary, 8, 17, 18, 20, 38, 44, residual energy, 43, 44, 45,
79 46, 83, 106, 127, 128,
door, 26, 44, 60, 81, 95, 129
110 safety, 40, 61, 64, 69, 75
Doors, 26, 98 salt, 58, 62
dreamcatchers, 59, 60 shoes, 53, 54
EMF, 23, 24, 28, 38, 45, sleep disturbances, 35, 36,
93, 94, 125 40, 50, 60
EVP, 92, 93 space clearing, 46, 47, 48,
family history, 89, 95 60, 127, 128
Feng Shui, 48, 77, 127, stairs, 25, 26, 99
128, 129 unfinished business, 122,
floorboards, 21, 98 124
Guiley, Rosemary, 107 vacuuming, 47
heat, 19, 22, 31, 44, 98, water, 32, 33, 34, 58, 62,
99, 100 81, 82, 84, 104
humidity, 32, 98, 99, 100, Wicca, 109
114 window, 21, 26, 60
ice, 98 witchcraft, 109
Johnson, Carl, 56, 82, 107, Zaffis, John, 56, 82, 107,
112 112

151