Official emergency declarations made by specified elected officials, at the local, state or federal level, authorizing the use of equipment, supplies, personnel and resources as may be necessary to cope with a disaster or emergency. Formal declarations are made when the event requires more assets and resources than exist within the jurisdiction. A declaration, on the local level, may result in funding, support and access to additional state or federal assets. (OSAC Crime Scene/Death Investigation Committee)
Synonyms: emergency declaration
