Introduction

Your “base” is the control hub of the investigation. It’s where you store gear, monitor live feeds, review quick playback, and keep your notes safe. A well-organized base ensures that your team works efficiently, stays safe, and has a central meeting point throughout the night.

Why the Base Matters

  • Coordination – Keeps everyone on the same page.

  • Equipment Security – Protects gear when not in use.

  • Safety – Serves as a known location to regroup in case of emergency.

  • Evidence Management – Allows quick checks without disrupting active sessions.

Choosing a Base Location

  • Central, but Low-Traffic – Close enough to reach all key areas quickly, but out of main investigation zones to avoid contaminating evidence.

  • Secure – A room or area that can be closed off from the public or non-team members.

  • Power Access – Outlets for charging gear and powering monitors.

  • Comfortable, But Professional – Chairs, small tables, and lighting for writing — but avoid turning it into a “hangout” that distracts from the investigation.

Base Setup Checklist

1. Tables & Work Surfaces

  • For organizing gear, maps, and notebooks.

2. Charging Station

  • Power strips and extension cords for cameras, recorders, and radios.

3. Monitoring Station (if using cameras)

  • Laptop or DVR for reviewing live feeds from stationary cameras.

4. Evidence Storage

  • Labeled containers or cases for memory cards, batteries, and other small items.

5. Communication Hub

  • Radios, walkie-talkies, or a team messaging app for quick contact.

6. Documentation Area

  • Clipboards, logs, and pens for tracking activity and team locations.

Base Security & Contamination Control

  • Assign one person to remain at base during active sessions.

  • Keep noise low — sound can travel into investigation areas.

  • No food or drinks near evidence or electronics.

Base Operations During the Investigation

  • Sign In/Out System – Log which team members are in the field and where.

  • Equipment Checkouts – Note when gear leaves and returns.

  • Quick Playback – Use for reviewing interesting captures during breaks.

Case Study

During a prison investigation, the team placed their base in a cell block to “stay close to the action.” This contaminated nearly every audio file with conversation, laughter, and movement from the base crew. The next night, they moved to a secure office near the entrance, cutting contamination to near zero.

Action Step Before Moving On

  • Choose a location in your home or a public space where you could set up a “mock base.”

  • Arrange it with tables, a notebook, and any equipment you own.

  • Practice logging gear checkouts and sign-ins as if running a live investigation.

Closing

Your base is the heartbeat of your operation — organized, secure, and strategically placed. In the next lesson, 5.2 – Baseline Readings & Environmental Mapping, we’ll start gathering the data that tells you what’s normal before you go looking for what’s paranormal.

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