Who: PF&R hosts HAM radio operators and NET team members

What: Amateur radio drill

When: 8:00 a.m. – noon (PIO available for interviews 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.)

Where: All fire stations (PIO available only at Station 3,1715 NW Johnson St.)

Portland Fire & Rescue (PF&R), in coordination with The Portland Bureau of Emergency Management (PBEM), will host an all-stations training and demonstration drill for HAM radio operations Saturday, October 22nd from 8:00 a.m. until noon.

The purpose of the drill is to ensure PBEM’s all-volunteer Neighborhood Emergency Team (NET) members are familiar with fire stations’ HAM radio kits and the operation of the equipment. NET members will participate in a communication test with the City’s Emergency Coordination Center (ECC). PF&R expects the HAM radio test to be completed and the equipment stowed by 12:00 p.m.

Amateur radio is a vital component of the city’s emergency communication strategy during a major emergency. This drill marks a rare opportunity to witness the HAM network operating on this scale in a practice environment. To answer any questions from media, PF&R will have an on-duty Public Information Officer available at Station 3 from 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

  Portland Fire & Rescue