For the purpose of this subchapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
EMERGENCY SERVICES. 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 enemy attack, sabotage or other natural or other human-made causes. These functions include, without limitation, firefighting services, police services, medical and health services, communications, radiological, chemical and other special weapons defense, evacuation of persons from stricken areas, emergency welfare services, emergency transportation, existing or properly assigned functions of plant protection, temporary restoration of public utility services and other functions related to civilian protection, together with all other activities necessary or incidental to the preparation for and carrying out of the foregoing functions. DISASTER includes the imminent threat of disaster as well as its occurrence and any power or authority exercisable on account of a disaster may be exercised during the period when there is an imminent threat thereof.
LOCAL ORGANIZATION FOR EMERGENCY SERVICES. An organization created in accordance with the provisions of W. Va. Code Article 15-5 by state or local authority to perform local emergency service functions.
MOBILE SUPPORT UNIT. An organization for emergency services created in accordance with the provisions of W. Va. Code Article 15-5 by state or local authority to be dispatched by the Governor to supplement local organizations for emergency services in a stricken area.
POLITICAL SUBDIVISION. Any county or municipal corporation in this state.
(Prior Code, § 109.01)