Anyone who lives or works in Portland can take NET training. Over 2,800 volunteers have completed basic training. Join them today.  

WHAT YOU GET

• FREE training that will provide you with the core skills you need in order to respond safely and effectively in a major disaster.
• An introduction to a network of neighbors, emergency response professionals, and other community leaders concerned with preparing for a major disaster.
• After completing basic training, access to advanced training opportunities, exercises, and classes.
  

 WHAT YOU GIVE

• About 30 hours for basic training, usually done over the course of four Saturday classes.
• At least twelve hours of volunteer time every calendar year. This can be in the form of talking with neighbors about emergency preparedness, attending neighborhood meetings, or taking advanced training classes.

To become a fully trained and activated NET volunteer, we ask you to complete several steps:

STEP 1: Complete the NET registration form. When you complete this step, you will be added to the NET database as an "Applicant" to the program. You will also receive NET orientation information via email, which includes a link to this NET Applicant checklist.

STEP 2: Complete the Online Preparedness Training. The Online Preparedness Training is a series of 17 videos on basic preparedness (all together, they add up to about two hours of viewing time). Once you have finished watching the videos, take a brief quiz. Passing the quiz is a prerequisite for the Basic NET training class; once you pass it, you are cleared to take a Basic NET class.

STEP 3: Sign up for Basic NET Training. After passing the quiz, the NET Coordinator will add you to the list of Applicants eligible for Basic NET Training. You will receive emails about available Basic training opportunities. Basic NET training is about 28 hours and is most often completed over the course of three long Saturday sessions. However, due to COVID-19 restrictions, you may complete two-thirds of the 'classroom' training online. See the first bullet here for more information.

STEP 4: Complete a criminal background check. You will be notified to submit a background check before your NET ID is issued. This is done at our expense. A background check is not required to take the training, but is required in order to join your neighborhood team. NET volunteers come into contact with vulnerable populations, have access to some city property and facilities, and receive sensitive information. Therefore, we require volunteers to complete periodic background checks. 

STEP 5: Join your team. The NET Coordinator will connect you with your neighborhood team leader. Your team leader will have information for you about NET meetings and will keep you informed of advanced NET training opportunities. You do not need to be a fully credentialed NET to participate in your team; please email the NET Coordinator for details.