For the purpose of this subchapter, the following definitions shall 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 a situation which has resulted in or is likely to result in catastrophic loss to 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 to prevent from developing or occurring.
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, fire-fighting 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 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-level emergency management functions in accordance with the provisions of this chapter or any rule or order thereunder. This includes personnel from city departments, authorized volunteers, and private organizations and agencies.
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ORGANIZATION. The staff responsible for coordinating city-level planning and preparation for disaster response. This organization provides city liaison and coordination with federal, state, and local jurisdictions relative to disaster preparedness activities and assures implementation of federal and state program requirements.