Department of Homeland Security Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) personnel recently joined NASCAR and law enforcement officials in a tabletop exercise focusing on GEICO 500 hypothetical public safety incidents.
CISA Executive Assistant Director for Infrastructure Security David Mussington said the exercise served as an example of the planning and coordination before race day to keep fans safe.
“Everyone has a role to play, and CISA looks forward to continuing to work with our partners throughout the region as we do our part to ensure the race is safe and secure,” he said.
Talladega Superspeedway personnel, state and local first responders, and local businesses participated in the endeavor, discussing roles, shared best practices, and improved coordination mechanisms as part of an ongoing partnership between those involved and not in response to any specific threat.
“The safety of every person at the GEICO 500 and all of our events is our top priority,” Talladega Superspeedway President Brian Crichton said. “We want everyone who attends races at NASCAR’s most competitive track to always have a safe, secure experience while here to enjoy the great racing at our world-class facility.”
CISA noted the agency participates in approximately 30 tabletop exercises annually and has staff strategically located throughout the country to advise businesses, schools, and other organizations on ways to enhance security.