Welcome to the official website for the FIR (Field Investigation & Research) department, a branch of the Paranormal Research Society. FIR was founded in 2001. It's mission is to investigate claims of paranormal phenomenon in a field (non-laboratory) setting with science and spirituality. This includes (but is not limited to) claims of haunted homes, objects and people, demonic possession, psychic phenomenon and occult activity.

On December 10th, 2007, A&E debuted "Paranormal State," a docu-drama series that chronicles some of FIR's cases. Since January 1st, 2008, the FIR department has received over 4,000 claims of paranormal activity.

FIR prefers to team up with science professionals (with emphasis on medical and mental health), established paranormal specialists and religious clergy.

The current FIR Director is Eilfie L. Music (elf@pennstateprs.com). The official motto is "Timorum Omitte!"

With that obstacle out of the way, Buell and former member Matthew Ritsko mapped out the future of PRS. Buell created two research departments, Field Investigation & Research department (FIR) and the Parapsychology & Laboratory Research department (PLR). Then, the two decided that members would have to go through rigorous training in order to be accepted into either departments.

Members would have to prove themselves by taking a weekly class that would give them a crash course in paranormal phenomenon, as well as the investigative techniques used in PRS. Trainees shadow on three investigations and then have to write a research paper.

"Right away, the interested in investigating dropped 80%," laughs Buell. "But that means we're sorting through the kids who just want to ghost bust from those who take this seriously and want to help people and make a difference."

PRS' first investigation was conducted in February, case file #2002.02.02F. Also known as "The Damien Haunting," named after the little boy who was being haunted by spirits in his Delaware home. The first major investigation, however, was #2002.03.04F, "Schwab Auditorium Haunting." For years, investigators have been trying to gain access into Penn State's own Schwab Auditorium. However, PRS was granted access and spent the night, followed by curious journalists and a film crew who wanted to learn more about this newly formed society.