Many, many people experience haunting phenomena. Such phenomena may include cold spots, unusual smells, knocks throughout the walls and ceiling, footsteps, the movement of objects, the turning on and off of electrical devices, unexplained whispers and voices, and yes... even the manifestation of spirit forms.

Quite often, this phenomena occurs within old and historic structures. Hauntings can attach themselves to objects, such as a recently purchased antique. Any dabbling with the occult (such as participating in seances or using an Ouija Board) can introduce paranormal activity within a home. Adolescent children can attract what is defined as a "Poltergeist" haunting. And most disturbingly, some hauntings occur for no apparent reason at all.

Most hauntings are benign and harmless. There are occasions, however, when violent and destructive attacks can occur. If a particular situation features the levitation of heavy furniture, the materialization and dematerialization of objects, physical attacks, foul smells, hideous spirit manifestations including dark "robed" figures...these belong to a category labeled "inhuman" or demonic. A family's faith and clergy intervention can be very helpful in such situations.

Here are some helpful tips, designed for the protection of those experiencing hauntings.

1. Never attempt to communicate with any would be spirits in your home. If the spirits are harmless, such as a visitation of one's grandmother, allow the manifestation to communicate what it wishes. All communication is initiated on their side. Attempting to initiate such communications yourself can make one vulnerable to negative entities... much like leaving your front door unlocked when you go to bed.

2. If any haunting activity frightens you, try to give it as little recognition as possible. Don't speak of it, or react strongly to it as it occurs. Recognition empowers hauntings.

3. Envision yourself surrounded by a white light, representing your faith or higher power. If you don't have a higher power, surround yourself with all you consider "positive" and "good"... the love of your child, the humor of your favorite comedy, your best memories, etc.

4. Avoid all intoxication... be it drug use or alcohol use.

5. Work hard to make your family relationships positive. Avoid excessive arguing.

6. If the activity escalates or continues to frighten you, contact a research group which appeals to you. Make sure the research group isn't in the habit of conducting seances, "debunking" clientele publicly, and being generally negative or critical. Certain research groups can direct you to your appropriate clergy, if need be. Even having recorded evidence of your haunting can provide some comfort, if family members fear that they are "going crazy." Just be careful to not give excessive recognition while appreciating this recorded evidence.

7. If you are experiencing a violent or destructive haunting, seek out a "religious demonologist" or the clergy of your choosing.