San Francisco, Calif. -- The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will host a two-day Y2K planning workshop tomorrow and Thursday, March 24 and 25, in San Francisco.

Workshop participants will include city, county and state emergency managers, fire marshals, and Y2K coordinators from Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, and Pacific island jurisdictions.

The two-day San Francisco session is one of 10 being held by FEMA nationwide to discuss Y2K preparedness, potential consequences resulting from computer disruptions, and coordination among emergency responders.

"Y2K does not have to be a major disaster," said Mike Walker, FEMA deputy director. "But while we don't expect a catastrophe, it's wise to plan for small disruptions that could happen simultaneously across the country."

"Our message is, 'Do prepare, but don't panic,'" said Martha Whetstone, regional director of FEMA Region IX in San Francisco. "To minimize any potential Y2K impact, we're working with our state and local partners on extensive planning, exercises, and outreach efforts."