For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
DISASTER. A situation which creates an immediate and serious impairment to the health and safety of any person, or situation which has resulted in or likely to result in, catastrophic loss of property and for which traditional sources of relief and assistance within the affected area are unable to repair or prevent the injury or loss.
EMERGENCY. An unforeseen combination of circumstances which calls for immediate action.
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT. The preparation for and the carrying out of all emergency functions, (other than functions for which military forces are primarily responsible), to prevent, minimize and repair injury and damage resulting from disasters caused by fire, flood, tornado and other acts of nature or from sabotage, hostile action or from industrial hazardous material mishaps. These functions include, without limitation, firefighting services, police services, emergency medical services, engineering, warning services, communications, radiological and chemical, evacuation, congregate care, emergency transportation, existing or properly assigned functions of plant protection, temporary restoration of public utility services and other functions related to civil protection, together with all other activities necessary or incidental for carrying out of the foregoing functions. EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT includes those activities sometimes referred to as CIVIL DEFENSE functions.
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT FORCES. The total personnel resources engaged in city emergency management functions in accordance with the provisions of this chapter or any rule or order there under. This includes personnel from the city, county, authorized volunteers and private organizations and agencies.
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ORGANIZATION. The staff element responsible for coordinating city planning and preparation for disaster response. This organization provides city liaison and coordination with federal, state and county authorities relative to disaster preparedness activities and assures implementation of federal and state program requirements.
(Prior Code, § 14.02) (Ord. 283, Third Series, effective 2-2-2006)