Basic NET training is the fundamental curriculum for all active and indemnified NET volunteers. Basic NET training conforms to standards of Basic CERT Training and goes beyond by adding elements typically not found in Basic CERT (see [[Differences Between NET and CERT Training]]). The purpose of this article is to shape expectations for Applicants and Trainees in the Portland NET program.

There is a lot of information here; though PBEM recommends reading all of it, a Trainee reading only the sections marked .'''Essential'''. will do fine. Particular attention should be paid to any sentence in .'''yellow highlight.'''.
...<ins>For simple disaster preparedness education, we offer <nowiki>[https://pbem.link/eprep 75-minute presentations to community groups]</nowiki></ins>.
__TOC__
...

== Qualifying for Basic NET Training (BNT) ==
Free Basic NET Training is open to all program Applicants who live, work, or otherwise spend significant time in Portland.

If you are uncertain whether or not you have applied to become a NET: Do you receive our regular NET Bulletin emails? If yes, you have already applied. If not, see [https://www.portland.gov/pbem/neighborhood-emergency-teams/volunteer Step 1 here].

After completing Step 1 you are officially an Applicant. Your next step is to watch the Online Preparedness videos and pass a 25-question Quiz, as described in [https://www.portland.gov/pbem/neighborhood-emergency-teams/volunteer Step 2 here]. After that, simply wait for PBEM to automatically notify you when BNT cohorts are scheduled. Simple!

== Basic NET Class Goals ==
[[File:2016.11.19.NET Rainbow.jpg|alt=NETs during a final field exercise on November 19, 2016. Yeah the rainbow is real, I didn't Photoshop it in.|thumb|''NETs during a final field exercise on November 19, 2016. Yeah the double rainbow is real, I didn't Photoshop it in.'' Photographer unknown.]]
{| class="wikitable" style="width: 25%; "
|+
| style="background: firebrick; color: white" |'''Section Importance: Essential'''
|}
In Basic NET training, you will learn how to provide emergency disaster assistance in your community when first responders (such as Police or Fire) are not immediately available. Basic NET training will also prepare the way for you to take some of the advanced training offered by PBEM if you wish to build on your preparedness and response skills.

Basic NET is not a class for persons interested only in disaster preparedness. By taking Basic NET training, we expect that you will serve on your neighborhood team for twelve hours each calendar year. For simple disaster preparedness education, we offer [https://pbem.link/eprep 75-minute presentations to community groups].
...

== Basic NET Training Structure ==
{| class="wikitable" style="width: 25%;
|+
|style="background: gold; color: black"|'''Section Importance: Supplemental'''
|}
Each Basic NET class is run by a Coordinating Instructor; typically, this person works for PBEM and can be reached by emailing [mailto:Net@portlandoregon.gov net@portlandoregon.gov].

'''The Coordinating Instructor for your Basic NET class will send you location and schedule details specific for your class approximately one week in advance; they do not appear here.'''

'''A few class fundamentals are consistent for all Basic NET classes. Those fundamentals include:'''

*Leading with equity and inclusion when carrying out class logistics.
*Ensuring income is not a barrier to participation.
*Designing class activities to address and accommodate different learning styles, with a preference for hands-on learning.
*Instruction from vetted and knowledgeable instructors.
* Evading the tyranny of slideshow instruction whenever possible, though it is at times a necessary evil, especially with FEMA curriculum.
*Vigilance for the physical safety of Trainees.
*Creating a safe and welcoming atmosphere for all class participants.

'''Other class structural elements are variable. Those elements include:'''

*'''Frequency:''' PBEM will offer a Basic NET class as staff resources and budget allow. PBEM typically conducts at least three cohorts each year.
*'''Duration:''' Basic NET is about 26 hours total. Two hours online, plus 24 hours in person including the Final Field Exercise (FFE).
*'''Location:''' PBEM can present the lecture portions of Basic NET at any venue that will safely and comfortably seat the entire class and has (or can accommodate) a screen and projector. Field exercises almost always take place at Portland Fire & Rescue's training campus.
*'''Schedule:''' Schedule depends on number of Trainees and the best schedule for the greatest number of them. The most common schedule is to break up the training over four long weekend days. PBEM can also do training three hours one day a week for about ten weeks, though this format is much less popular and successful.
*'''Class size:''' Training cohort size typically runs between 80 and 100 Trainees, though PBEM might train more than one cohort at the same time in different classroom areas.
*'''Childcare:''' PBEM acknowledges that childcare is required for many parents to participate in Basic NET. Reimbursement for childcare is available through our partner Politisit. Please see the [[Childcare]] page.
*'''Language:''' PBEM provides Basic NET training in languages other than English in partnership with community groups, or can provide an interpreter in an English class with advance notice.
*'''Coffee:''' Usually the trainers bring coffee, sometimes they do not. Either way you will be told in advance. If you want to play it safe, nobody will judge you if you wheel in an IV drip of Stumptown.
*'''Food:''' PBEM generally does not provide meals during training, so please plan ahead. Usually we take two 30-minute breaks on the classroom days.
...

== Basic NET Class Format and Expectations ==
{| class="wikitable" style="width: 25%;
|+
|style="background: firebrick; color: white"|'''Section Importance: Essential'''
|}
Much of the training will take place in a classroom with several hands on exercises. PBEM recommends Trainees dress in comfortable clothing you can move around in. The last session is the [[Basic NET Training Standard Syllabus#The Final Field Exercise .28FFE.29|Final Field Exercise (FFE)]]. It will be outdoors and very hands-on. Please dress for the weather.

==== Missing a class ====
PBEM can only certify you as a NET if you complete all Basic Training units. If you miss a day of class, your Coordinating Instructor will inform you of makeup opportunities. Trainees sometimes ask: Should I ''not'' sign up for Basic NET if you know you will have a prior commitment for one of the class periods? Generally, '''''no''''', you should sign up for the class series and take a makeup class later.

==== Weather Delays & Cancellations ====
Especially in winter, the weather can sometimes make travel too dangerous to meet.

* If the schedule must be changed on any day you are scheduled to attend class, the NET Coordinator will notify you via email ASAP, but '''no later than 07:00am that day.'''
* When weather ''could'' be a factor, the NET Coordinator will update the Basic NET Status page '''by 07:00am''' each day of [[BNT Status|scheduled classes]]. Note the date & time stamp near the top. Options can include 1) proceed; 2) postpone start time by an hour or two; 3) cancel/reschedule the date; or 4) switch to virtual, though for most classes this is not a feasible option.
* All that aside, '''every one of us is required to put our own safety first'''. If you feel that travelling to any class will be dangerous, please do not come. It's simple: Just like if you wake up feeling ill. No one will ever be penalized for choosing safety. If you must make up missed Segments with a future cohort, so be it.

==== Class conduct ====

* [[File:Firefighter.jpg|alt=This firefighter is sad because the NETs left his classroom a mess and his captain detailed him to clean it up.|thumb|''This firefighter is sad because the NETs left the firefighters' classroom a mess and his captain detailed him to clean it up.'']]We are guests in every classroom and training site we use. Please help ensure we can get invited back by keeping your area tidy and disposing of trash appropriately.
* Always sign in on the attendance sheet in every session. '''If you do not sign in, you were not there.'''
* Trainees are encouraged to bring lunch or snacks (preferably quiet ones) and drinks to stay hydrated, energetic, and engaged through the training.
* Trainees will be released for breaks on training days longer than four hours.
* Questions during class are both expected and welcome. However, since instructors are very accommodating, it can happen that too many questions hijack the main class lecture and classes run late. Therefore, out of courtesy for your training cohort and the instructors, be judicious in what questions you ask and send an email to [mailto:Net@portlandoregon.gov net@portlandoregon.gov] if you have many questions.
* Though in Trainee status, a Trainee is subject to the [[PBEM Volunteer Code of Conduct]]. Inappropriately disrespectful or disruptive Trainees will receive instruction to [https://prowritingaid.com/go-pound-sand#:~:text=in%20My%20Writing%3F-,What%20Does%20Pound%20Sand%20or%20Go%20Pound%20Sand%20Mean%3F,do%20something%20stupid%20and%20pointless. pound sand], be [https://www.merriam-webster.com/words-at-play/yeet-meaning-and-history yeeted] from the classroom, and seldom thought of again.
* Please note that by its nature, Basic NET can involve Trainees touching each other, especially during the Medical units. If you are uncomfortable touching others, or being touched, you may opt out of those hands-on sections.
* No advertisements, political flyers, fundraising solicitations, or other items may be distributed at any NET event, or left behind at a NET event location. Doing so is a violation of the [[PBEM Volunteer Code of Conduct]] and may lead to suspension or separation from the program.

==== CERT Textbook ====
The [https://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/2019.CERT_.Basic_.PM_FINAL_508c.pdf CERT Basic Training Participant Manual] is the textbook for Basic NET training. Trainees may receive a free loose-leaf hard copy of the textbook on the first day of class, but PBEM recommends using an electronic copy where possible. Either way, '''a Trainee should ''never'' pay for the textbook;''' there are scammers out there who will try to charge for a copy.

==== Portland NET Guidelines ====
The [https://bit.ly/net-guidelines-pdf NET Guidelines] serve as the NET program "blueprint" and will help Trainees understand how PBEM runs the NET program, expectations volunteers should have of the City of Portland, and expectations PBEM has of volunteers. With the exception of sections concerning NET Operations, the NET Guidelines are not required reading for Basic NET Trainees. The Guidelines are currently being updated, and migrated to the [https://volunteerpdx.net/ NET wiki].

The NET Guidelines are only available electronically; PBEM does not distribute hard copies.

'''TLAs (Three-Letter Acryonymns)'''

We use lots of them. It is an affliction endemic to governmental work. While we strive to speak plainly in class, we have also compiled a list of [[Acronyms and Technical Terms Used in PBEM Community Resilience Programs]]. For the essentials, click the column header ''Frequency of Use'' and review terms marked ''1.) Very common''. You will be spouting those like a pro when you finish training.
...

== Basic NET Class Required Homework ==
{| class="wikitable" style="width: 25%;
|+
|style="background: firebrick; color: white"|'''Section Importance: Essential'''
|}
'''All Trainees have required tasks to complete ''before'' they take the Final Field Exercise (FFE).'''

==== Pass the Unit 8 quiz on CERT and Terrorism ====
Unit 8 (CERT and Terrorism) is not delivered in the classroom. Instead, Trainees will complete that unit by reading, watching a video, and passing a quiz on the material in [https://bttr.im/qae2p MyImpactPage], just like the Online Preparedness Quiz you passed in order to register for Basic Training. You must pass the Unit 8 quiz before your FFE date.

==== Contact your Team Leader and introduce yourself ====
To find your Team Leader's email address, please use the [https://pbem.link/net-team-map interactive Team Map]. Also review your team's Operations Plan linked on that page, if one exists. You may begin attending Team Meetings as soon as you register for training; you are not required to wait until you finish.

==== Log your hours, including independent study, in-person training, and travel time to classes ====
To learn how to do this, please visit the page on the [[Portal FAQ|Volunteer Portal FAQ]].

==== Learn how to use the Damage Assessment Mapping Module (DAMM) ====
All Trainees with smartphones should download the DAMM and learn how to use it. Visit the [[Damage Assessment Mapping Module|DAMM page]] to learn more.

==== Complete a criminal background check ====
Just before the FFE, you will be asked to complete a criminal background check so we can confirm your eligibility to activate you as a NET volunteer. You will receive an email with instructions to complete this step as the date of the FFE gets closer. If you plan to become a Active NET volunteer, complete the background check instructions as given. More details are on our page about [[Criminal Background|information about our background check process and policies]].

...

== Equipment: Basic NET Response Packs ==
{| class="wikitable" style="width: 25%;
|+
|style="background: firebrick; color: white"|'''Section Importance: Essential'''
|}
'''In order to graduate from Basic NET, Trainees are required to present their own Basic Response Packs at the FFE.''' A stocked response kit mitigates hazards encountered by a NET volunteer during a deployment. When called on to deploy to an emergency, you would take your NET kit with you to ensure you can respond effectively.

Volunteers who can, should purchase/assemble their own packs. '''However, PBEM will provide a pack or pieces to complete a pack for any Trainee unable to easily afford equipment.''' Trainees can request this by simply [mailto:net@portlandoregon.gov?NET pack request emailing] the Coordinating Instructor ''after'' beginning their in-person classes.

NET Trainees often find they can construct most of their kit from items around the home, and simply buy the few pieces they do not already possess. The one highly specialized item in the kit is the 4-in-1 tool (see below for details).

==== Equipment provided by PBEM ====
Required equipment includes a NET hard hat, vest, and ID with lanyard. However, PBEM will provide those items and Trainees should not purchase them.

As resources permit PBEM will also provide all Trainees with a Field Operating Guide (FOG) and hard hat chinstraps.

==== Basic Response Packs: Required Equipment Items ====
A Basic Response Pack minimally acceptable for the FFE includes the items listed in the table below. Rows in .'''orange highlight'''. are provided by PBEM and you should '''not''' purchase them.

Equipment illustrations by [https://www.instagram.com/hughnewell/?hl=en Hugh Newell].
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width: 50%; margin: left"
|+<div style="text-align: left; color: blue">[[File:Expanding Table.png|left|250x250px|link=]]<div style="text-align: left; color: black">
! colspan="2" |Item
!Notes
|-
|'''Backpack, 1,200 in3 or larger'''
|[[File:Netpack.jpg|alt=NET backpack illustration|frameless]]
|Red with NET branding preferred but not required. We have one NET volunteer out there with a Hello Kitty response pack and it is fine.
|- style="background: #D35D30; color: white"
|'''Protective hard hat'''
|[[File:Helmet.jpg|alt=NET hard hat|frameless]]
|Red with NET branding is '''''required'''''. Provided by PBEM, should be replaced every five years.
|- style="background: #D35D30; color: white"
|'''Reflective vest'''
|[[File:Netvest.jpg|alt=NET vest|frameless]]
|Red/orange with NET branding '''''required'''''. Provided by PBEM. Must meet ANSI Class 2 standards.
|- style="background: #D35D30; color: white"
|'''NET ID and lanyard'''
|[[File:Netid.jpg|alt=NET ID|frameless]]
|Provided by PBEM.
|-
|'''Safety goggles'''
|[[File:Goggles.jpg|alt=Safety goggles|frameless]]
|See [[Eye Protection for NETs]]
|-
|'''N95 masks (qty.2)'''
|[[File:Dust mask.jpg|frameless]]
|P100 or a respirator can be substituted, though P100s are difficult to breathe in.
|-
|'''4-in-1 tool'''
|[[File:4in1tool.jpg|alt=4 in 1 tool, illustration by Hugh Newell|center|frameless|4 in 1 tool, illustration by Hugh Newell]]
|Available under a few different brands. The ones PBEM has are branded ON DUTY.
|-
|'''Duct tape (1 roll)'''
|[[File:Duct tape.jpg|frameless]]
|
|-
|'''LED flashlight'''
|[[File:Flashlight.jpg|frameless]]
|A headlamp is strongly recommended, to keep your hands free.
|-
|'''Prybar, 15"'''
|[[File:Prybar.jpg|frameless]]
|
|-
|'''Cutting tool'''
|[[File:Pocket knife.jpg|frameless]]
|Pocketknife or multitool.
|-
|'''Nylon cord, ⅛" 100' roll'''
|[[File:Nyloncord.jpg|alt=Nylon cord|frameless]]
|
|-
|'''Tough gloves'''
|[[File:Gloves.jpg|frameless]]
|
|-
|'''Note pad and writing instrument'''
|[[File:Writing supplies.jpg|frameless]]
|
|-
|'''Whistle'''
|[[File:Whistle.jpg|frameless]]
|Recommend whistles with a lanyard.
|-
|'''AM/FM radio'''
|[[File:Crank powered radio.jpg|frameless]]
|Not required at the FFE.
|-
|'''Kneepads'''
|[[File:Kneepads.jpg|alt=Kneepads|frameless]]
|
|-
|'''First aid kit'''
|[[File:First aid kit.jpg|frameless]]
|
|-
|'''FRS/GMRS radio'''
|[[File:Frsgmrsradio.jpg|alt=FRS/GMRS radio|center|frameless|FRS/GMRS radio]]
|Your radio is not required for the FFE, so we suggest waiting to purchase it until after we discuss devices in Basic NET Unit 9 - Tactical Radio Communications.
|-
|'''Spare batteries'''
|[[File:Batteries.jpg|frameless]]
|Rechargeable NiMH batteries are recommended if available in the volunteer's price range. We discuss batteries in Basic NET Unit 9 - Tactical Radio Communications.
|}

==== Whole kit purchases and kit pieces ====
Trainees may choose to assemble their own kit, or purchase a whole kit from vendors. If you choose the latter option, you will pay a little extra for the convenience, and you do not get to select each specific component.

Note that CERT-branded kits have green instead of orange/red NET branding. Both are fine, but you are not required to pay extra merely for CERT or NET branding. Any functional backpack is perfectly fine, as long as it is dedicated to your NET supplies when you graduate.

If you wish to buy a whole kit instead of pieces, the vendors on the list below can accommodate you. Any of the kits on the the list is enough (or more than enough) for your FFE. If ordering for delivery, be sure to act early so that your equipment arrives on time for your FFE. And please do not feel limited to this list.

{| class="wikitable" style="width: 50%; "
|+
| style="background: snow; color: black" |'''''DISCLAIMER:''''' ''Any reference obtained from this website to a specific product, process, or service does not constitute or imply endorsement by PBEM or the City of Portland of the product, process, or service, or its producer or provider. Nor is PBEM or the City of Portland responsible for the fitness or quality of any product purchased from any vendor referenced on this website. Buyer beware. PBEM recommends inspecting the quality of all disaster response supplies and even stress testing them in a controlled environment before using them for deployment, when safety matters.''
|}
{| class="wikitable" style="width: 50%; "
|+Vendors who sell single kit items
!Vendor
!Notes
|-
|[https://www.emergencykits.com/emergency-kits/c-e-r-t-kits EmergencyKits.com]
|Online ordering only.
|-
|[https://edisastersystems.com/collections/cert-kits-supplies-c-64 Emergency Disaster Systems]
|Online ordering only.
|-
|[https://www.firesupplydepot.com/cert-kits-supplies.html Fire Supply Depot]
|Online ordering only.
|-
|[http://www.preparesmart.com/ PrepareSmart]
|Online ordering only.
|-
|[https://propacusa.com/ ProPac]
|Online ordering only.
|-
|[https://www.sosproducts.com/cert-kits-and-accessories-s/1941.htm SOS Survival Products]
|Online ordering only.
|}
''Trainees can also find kit items at hardware and outdoor stores. For Trainees who prefer locally owned stores, there are many options!'' ...

== Equipment: Supplemental Pack Equipment ==
{| class="wikitable" style="width: 25%; "
| style="background: gold; color: black" |'''Section Importance: Supplemental'''
|}
Over time, a NET volunteer will enhance and customize their own packs. For those who want to start on that early, PBEM recommends considering the items in the following list. These items are NOT required. Rows in '''orange highlight''' are provided by PBEM and you should not purchase them ''unless'' PBEM has no supply of them available.

Many NETs also find it useful to create a "quick access kit" of a few frequently used items that they carry in a fanny pack, to reduce the number of times they must put their backpack on and off.
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|+[[File:Expanding Table.png|left|250x250px|link=]]
! colspan="2" |Item
!Notes
|-
|Hard hat chin straps
|
|Provided by PBEM while supplies last
|-
|Field Operating Guide (FOG)
|
|Provided by PBEM while supplies last
|-
|Heavy-duty 40 gallon plastic bags
|
|
|-
|Emergency blankets ("space blankets")
|
|
|-
|Water treatment tablets
|
|
|-
|Rain poncho
|
|
|-
|Light sticks
|
|
|-
|Earplugs (1 pair)
|
|
|-
|Voltage tick meter
|
|
|-
|Lumber crayon or grease pencil
|
|
|-
|Marking pen (permanent, black)
|
|
|-
|Emergency flares
|
|
|-
|Copies of ICS forms and clipboard
|
|[[NET Incident Command System (ICS) Forms]]
|-
|Synthetic webbing and carabiners
|
|
|}
.....

== NET ID Pictures ==
You must have your photo taken for your official NET ID card. This is done by the Class Coordinator between classroom sessions.



== The Final Field Exercise (FFE) ==
{| class="wikitable" style="width: 25%;
|+
|style="background: gold; color: black"|'''Section Importance: Supplemental'''
|}
The FFE is the practicum part of your basic training. '''The FFE will take place at the [https://goo.gl/maps/AiokhexHADPNei2S9 Portland Fire & Rescue Training campus, 4800 NE 122nd].'''

For the day of your FFE, please check the forecast and dress for the weather! Much of the FFE takes place outdoors, rain or shine. If it is forecast to rain and you don't have a rain jacket, at least buy a cheap dollar-store poncho. Getting stuck in the rain during your FFE is a one-trip ticket to Miserytown.

Closed toe shoes are required. Boots are better. Ceramic or steel toe boots are the best. (Sandals are acceptable only at Parks & Rec, not Fire & Rescue.)

If you would like to view pictures and videos of past FFEs to see what an FFE entails, please visit: https://portlandnet.tumblr.com/tagged/FFE

A map of the training campus appears below. Click [https://volunteerpdx.net/images/f/f7/PF%26R_Training_Campus.jpg '''HERE'''] to enlarge the image.
[[File:PF&R Training Campus.jpg|alt=A map of Portland Fire & Rescue's Training campus. Click here for an enlarged version.|left|thumb|660x660px|''A map of Portland Fire & Rescue's Training campus. [https://volunteerpdx.net/images/f/f7/PF%26R_Training_Campus.jpg Click here for an enlarged version].'']]
{| class="wikitable"
|+<big>Map Locations</big>
! colspan="2" |<big>Area</big>
!<big>Use</big>
|- style="background: forestgreen; color: white"
|<big>A</big>
|Training Area A
|During an FFE, this area reserved for the fire suppression station.
|- style="background: forestgreen; color: white"
|<big>B</big>
|Training Area B
|During an FFE, this area reserved for the cribbing station.
|- style="background: forestgreen; color: white"
|<big>C</big>
|Blue Shed
|During an FFE, this is the area reserved for the triage station.
|- style="background: forestgreen; color: white"
|<big>D</big>
|Tower
|
|- style="background: FireBrick; color: white"
|<big>1</big>
|Main Classroom
|During an FFE, we assemble here in the morning, and return after completing the four field stations to debrief.
|- style="background: FireBrick; color: white"
|<big>2</big>
|Annex
|During an FFE, this area might be reserved for the Advanced Bleeding/Stop the Bleed station.
|- style="background: FireBrick; color: white"
|<big>3</big>
|Training Academy (TAC)
|
|- style="background: FireBrick; color: white"
|<big>4</big>
|NET Conex
|
|- style="background: FireBrick; color: white"
|<big>5</big>
|Search House
|During an FFE, this is the area reserved for the search station.
|}

..

The FFE lasts approximately five hours in the field, plus post-exercise debrief. The Trainee cohort is split randomly into groups, and those groups cycle through each of the FFE stations as a team.
[[File:2022.09.11.Tower.jpg|alt=The tower at PF&R Training. Welcome to Mordor.|thumb|400x400px|''The tower at PF&R Training. Welcome to Mordor.'']]

==== Fire Suppression and Utilities Shutoff Station ====
At this station, Trainees will use dry chemical ABC fire extinguishers to put out a fire on a burn pan. Trainees should be ready to use the PASS method. Instructor will also review shutting off a water main. Usually held at Training Area A on the map. Outdoors.

==== Cribbing and Extrication Station ====
Trainees will safely extricate an exercise dummy from underneath a one-ton (or larger) concrete slab using wrecking bars and cribbing blocks. Scene sizeup is also important for this station. Usually held at Training Area B on the map. Outdoors.

==== Triage Station ====
In the Blue Shed, Area C, survivor actors in [[moulage]] need to be triaged and removed from the building. Mostly indoors.

==== Search Station ====
Instructor will cover building markings, scene sizeup, and interior search patterns to locate survivors either in Building 5 or Tower D. Trainees will want their flashlights ready. Mostly indoors.

==== Advanced Bleeding Control (aka Stop the Bleed) ====
Trainees will learn the theory behind compression and tourniquets to stop serious bleeding, and practice both using limb simulators. Indoors.

...

== Basic NET Class Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) ==
{| class="wikitable" style="width: 25%;
|+
|style="background: gold; color: black"|'''Section Importance: Supplemental'''
|}

===== Q: I am a person with a disability. Can I still participate in Basic NET training? =====
''A: Yes; you are encouraged to participate and become an Active NET volunteer.'' '''Every''one''''' ''has a role in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. On average, 12% of all NET volunteers self-identify as a person with a physical or cognitive disability. Please see the page on [[participation for persons with disabilities]] for more detail.''

===== Q: I have a conviction on my background check. Can I still participate in Basic NET training? =====
''A: Yes. Except for persons who are an active menace, anyone can participate in NET training. The criminal background check is conducted to determine if you can become an Active NET volunteer after you complete the training. Having an offense on record also does not necessarily exclude a person from becoming an Active NET volunteer; it depends on the offense and how long ago it took place. Please review PBEM's [[Criminal Background|policy on criminal background checks]] for more detail.''

===== Q: What is my class schedule and where is the class? =====
''A: Your Coordinating Instructor will send that information to you via email. That information does not appear on this page. If you think you should have received it by now, email [mailto:Net@portlandoregon.gov net@portlandoregon.gov].''

===== Q: Can I skip a class unit if I already have training in the subject? =====
''A: No. Even if you are highly trained in a field, medical treatment for example, it is still important for you to learn about how NET volunteers approach the topic. Otherwise, you might find yourself in a response situation and not understand why your teammates approach problems the way they do. This causes confusion in the team and a rapid breakdown of team aptitude.''

===== Q: Can I begin logging my NET volunteer hours now? =====
''A: Yes, please do! You have an active profile [https://app.betterimpact.com/Login/Login?returnUrl=/Volunteer/Main/GenericLogOut&agencyGuid=5c003f3a-8d04-4cdf-b8c0-41627fea7871 in MIP]. For information on how to log hours, please visit the page for the [[Minimum Service Contribution (MSC)|NET Minimum Service Contribution]].''

===== Q: If I miss a day of class, or know I'll miss a day of class, should I drop out of the class? =====
''A: No. Take the classes you can and make up the ones you missed when you have a makeup opportunity. Note that you will not graduate and be activated as a NET, however, until you have completed all class units and a Final Field Exercise.''

''...''

== Basic NET Class Program History ==
{| class="wikitable" style="width: 25%;
|+
|style="background: gold; color: black"|'''Section Importance: Supplemental'''
|}
[under construction]

BNT Status

2026-03-31T01:50:56Z

GlennDevitt:

== Basic NET Training Class Status ==
'''''Updated 2026.03.30, [[Military Time Conversion Chart|1842]]'''''

'''''It might be necessary to clear your browser cache, or use SHIFT + REFRESH, to load the latest updates on this page.'''''

When weather or other events might affect a day's classes, registered Trainees should keep an eye on their email for updates, or check back here '''by 07:00am on the day of scheduled classes'''. Please do not email PBEM to request news during emergency incidents; we promise to send you new information when it becomes available.
{| class="wikitable"
|+
|'''Key:'''
* Proceeding as scheduled.
* Modified or delayed. Details will be posted here and/or sent via email to registered Trainees.
* Postponed. PBEM will follow up via email when the current emergency incident response concludes.
|}

* Sat 04/11 Segment A
* Sun 04/12 Segment B
* Sat 04/25 Segment C
* Sun 04/26 Segment A
* Sat 05/02 Segment B
* Sun 05/03 Segment C
* Sat 05/09 Final Field Exercise
* Sun 05/10 Final Field Exercise

Click for the: [https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?w0=t&w2=wc&w3=sfcwind&w3u=1&w5=pop&w7=rain&w8=thunder&w9=snow&w10=fzg&w11=sleet&w13u=0&w16u=1&AheadHour=0&Submit=Submit&FcstType=graphical&textField1=45.52&textField2=-122.68&site=all&unit=0&dd=&bw= Hourly NWS Portland forecast at 200ft above sea level]

BNT Status

2026-03-31T01:43:12Z

GlennDevitt: Reinitialized for April 2026 cohort

== Basic NET Training Class Status ==
'''''Updated 2026.03.30, [[Military Time Conversion Chart|1842]]'''''

'''''It might be necessary to clear your browser cache, or use SHIFT + REFRESH, to load the latest updates on this page.'''''

When weather or other events might affect a day's classes, registered Trainees should keep an eye on their email for updates, or check back here '''by 07:00am on the day of scheduled classes'''. Please do not email PBEM to request news during emergency incidents; we promise to send you new information when it becomes available.
{| class="wikitable"
|+
|'''Key:'''
* Proceeding as scheduled.
* Modified or delayed. Details will be posted here and/or sent via email to registered Trainees.
* Postponed. PBEM will follow up via email when the current emergency incident response concludes.
|}

* Sat 04/11 Segment A
* Sun 04/12 Segment B
* Sat 04/25 Segment C
* Sun 04/26 Segment A
* Sat 05/02 Segment B
* Sun 05/03 Segment C
* Sat 04/09 Final Field Exercise
* Sun 04/10 Final Field Exercise

Click for the: [https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?w0=t&w2=wc&w3=sfcwind&w3u=1&w5=pop&w7=rain&w8=thunder&w9=snow&w10=fzg&w11=sleet&w13u=0&w16u=1&AheadHour=0&Submit=Submit&FcstType=graphical&textField1=45.52&textField2=-122.68&site=all&unit=0&dd=&bw= Hourly NWS Portland forecast at 200ft above sea level]