§ 12-8. Same—Specific powers and duties

(a) In performing his duties under this chapter, the director of civil defense is authorized to cooperate with the state government, with other municipalities and counties, and with private agencies in all matters pertaining to the civil defense of the town.

(b) In performing his duties and to effect the policy and purpose of this chapter, the director is further authorized and empowered:

(1) To make, amend and rescind the necessary orders, rules and regulations to carry out the provisions of this chapter within the limits of the authority conferred upon him, with due consideration of the plans of the state government.

(2) To prepare a comprehensive plan and program for the civil defense of this town, such plan and program to be integrated into and coordinated with the civil defense plans of the county and state governments, and of other municipalities and counties within the state to the fullest extent.

(3) In accordance with such plan and program for the civil defense of this town, to procure supplies and equipment, to institute training programs and public information programs, and to take all other preparatory steps including the partial or full mobilization of the civil defense organization in advance of actual disaster, to ensure the furnishing of adequately trained and equipped forces of civil defense personnel in time of need.

(4) To make such studies and surveys of the industries, resources and facilities in this town as may be necessary to ascertain the capabilities of the town for civil defense, and to plan for the most efficient emergency use thereof.

(5) On behalf of this town, to enter into mutual aid arrangements with other municipalities and counties within this state, and also, with the approval of the governor of West Virginia, with civil defense agencies or organizations of other states, for reciprocal civil defense aid and assistance in case of disaster too great to be dealt with unassisted.

(6) To delegate any administrative authority invested in him under this chapter, and to provide for the subdelegation of any such authority.

(7) To cooperate with the governor, the West Virginia division of civil defense, and officials and agencies of other municipalities and counties within the state in matters pertaining to civil defense of the town and state, including the direction or control of:

a. Blackouts and practice blackouts, air raid drills, mobilization of civil defense forces, and other tests and exercises;

b. Warnings and signals for drills or attacks and the mechanical and electronic devices to be used in connection therewith;

c. The effective screening or extinguishing of all lights and electronic devices and appliances;

d. Shutting off water mains, gas mains, electric power connections and suspension of all other utility services;

e. The conduct of civilians and the movement and cessation of movement of pedestrians and vehicular traffic during, prior to and subsequent to drills or attacks;

f. Public meetings or gatherings; and

g. The evacuation and reception of the civilian population.

(Code 1979, § 6-8)