Will my trash be picked up Thursday? That’s the question many of you are asking as a possible garbage strike gets closer.

Hundreds of trash collectors in Snohomish and King counties could walk off the job at midnight if they don’t reach a new contract with Waste Management and Allied Waste. Disagreements continue over salary and health benefits.

Both companies, which serve different parts of Lynnwood, say they have backup plans in case of a strike. They’ve called in dozens of out-of-state workers, although it remains to be seen if it will be enough to continue service uninterrupted. Hospitals, clinics, daycare centers and grocery stores will be given priority.

Waste Management has taken it one step further, placing ads in newspapers and on Craigslist seeking replacement drivers. Spokesperson Jackie Lang said they’ve had more than 1,000 responses in 24 hours.

On its Web site, Waste Management says to “put your garbage, recyclables and yardwaste at the curb as usual. If we do not pick up your material on Thursday up to twice as much material will be collected on your next regularly scheduled collection day for each container.”

Waste Management is telling customers to check its Web site starting 6 a.m. for more information. Allied Waste customers can find information this Web site.