April is disaster preparedness month in Washington. This all-hazards campaign will continue through the month the month and feature a statewide “Drop, Cover and Hold” drill April 3, between 9:45 a.m. and 10 a.m.

Many state agencies are taking a proactive approach to preparedness. The state Department of Information Services, in partnership with the Emergency Management Division, is hosting a series of personal disaster preparedness training sessions for agency staff.

These sessions provide an opportunity for DIS employees to learn about personal disaster preparedness and how to cope in the aftermath of an emergency.

Other preparedness month activities include the observance of National Telecommunicators’ Week April 13-April 19 by the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officers.

State and local governments agencies, schools, hospitals, businesses and the general public will participate in the “Drop, Cover and Hold” drill that will be initiated by an Emergency Alert System test on radio and television stations across the state.

“Emergency preparedness is the most important action we can take,” said Gov. Gary Locke.