Definicija: Strukture in postopki, ki jih razvijajo države za zagotavljanje zaščite in pomoči prebivalstvu in za zaščito lastnine in okolja v primeru naravnih in drugih nesreč.

Definicija: The organization and measures, usually under governmental or other authority depending on the country, aimed at preventing, abating or fighting major emergencies for the protection of the civilian population and property, particularly in wartime.