It's an un-serious spin which makes a serious matter more palatable. In the wake of a series of recent disasters -- of hurricanes, tsunamis and earthquakes in such places as New Orleans, Japan, Haiti and more -- a group of Ballard residents are gathering together for a day simply called "Zombie Apocalypse Day."

Zombie Apocalypse Day is not a fan tribute to the hit AMC series, "Walking Dead," but rather an opportunity for community members to gather together and learn how to prepare for an emergency, should the worst happen.

According to organizer and Ballard resident Jay Condon, the event will have twenty vendors, demos, speakers and entertainment for children.

Condon remind people, "It is important to be prepared for a crisis. The intent of this event is not to scare you. It is purely an educational event for the community. Being prepared doesn't mean you are living paranoid. It is a sense of responsibility to you, your family, and your community."

Of course, like the end of the Mayan calendar, it's unlikely that an actual Zombie Apocalypse should come. But that doesn't mean other disasters won't.

In Seattle, the big concern is that the "Big One" will hit, a major earthquake which could cause irreparable damage, possibly knocking out utilities, tying up streets with wreckage and leaving people stranded without help for days or even weeks. Many say it's a matter of when, not if.

"There has been criticism about being prepared as if it meant you would be holding a sign up down at west lake center declaring the end of the world, but the truth is, being prepared is no different from having car insurance," Condon said. "You hope you don't need it, but if you do, you are glad you have it. It is a responsibility to your family and, in Ballard, your community."

The Ballard News-Tribune will have a more detailed piece about emergency preparedness and what Ballardites are doing to prepare in the near future.

Zombie Apocalypse Day will be held at the Ballard Community Center Jan. 27 from noon to 6 p.m.

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