The Kaua'i Civil Defense Agency will host the annual, week-long Weapons of Mass Destruction exercise in conjunction with the Hawai'i National Guard 93rd Civil Support Team.

Monday through Wednesday will entail classroom training. Field exercises will take place on Thursday around Nawiliwili Harbor as well as at the Pacific Missile Range Facility.

Officials are asking the public to stay away from these areas while the exercises are being conducted.

"We're asking for the public's cooperation by staying clear of these locations so there's no interference with the training," said Mark Marshall, administrator of the Kaua'i Civil Defense Agency.

He advised residents not to be alarmed if they notice emergency vehicles along with National Guard troops moving about the island this week.

"When you see an emergency vehicle with flashing warning lights and sirens approaching, you should pull over to the side of the roadway in a safe manner and allow the first responder to pass," Marshall said.

The goal of the exercise is to ensure that Kaua'i's first responders are prepared in the unlikely event of a terrorist attack on the Garden Isle, county officials said.

Among the county agencies that will be participating in the training are: the Kaua'i Fire Department; Kaua'i Police Department; Department of Public Works; and Department of Water.

Representatives of several state and federal agencies, along with private industry will also take part in the exercise.