Basic NET Kits

Sometimes, a backpack is more than just a backpack—it's a symbol of the strengths of community partnership and inclusive planning, reminding us all that when we come together, we create a safer, more resilient [community] for everyone.

— L. Vance Taylor with CalOES

The most effective emergency responders possess three things: training, experience, and equipment. In some situations, all the training and experience in the world would not make a responder effective if they did not also have the tools for the job. Therefore, a basic NET kit is required for all active NET volunteers. The purpose of this article is to specify what items at minimum should be found in a basic NET response kit.

Item		Rationale	Notes
Backpack, 1,200 in3 or larger		Simple: so you can carry the stuff in your kit and access equipment quickly and easily.	As the quote at the start of this article indicates, 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.
Protective hard hat			Red with NET branding is required. Provided by PBEM, should be replaced every five years.
Reflective vest			Red/orange with NET branding required. Provided by PBEM. Must meet ANSI Class 2 standards.
NET ID and lanyard			Provided by PBEM.
Safety goggles			See Eye Protection for NETs
N95 masks (qty.2)			P100 or a respirator can be substituted, though P100s are difficult to breathe in.
4-in-1 tool	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)
LED flashlight			A headlamp is strongly recommended, to keep your hands free.
Prybar, 15"
Cutting tool			Pocketknife or multitool.
Nylon cord, ⅛" 100' roll
Tough gloves
Note pad and writing instrument
Whistle			Recommend whistles with a lanyard.
AM/FM radio			Not required at the FFE.
Kneepads
First aid kit
FRS/GMRS radio	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			Rechargeable NiMH batteries are recommended if available in the volunteer's price range. We discuss batteries in Basic NET Unit 9 - Tactical Radio Communications.