WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Details have been fine-tuned, and the city's fire and EMS personnel are ready for the visit of Pope Benedict XVI.
"This is another national security event, which we are accustomed to here," said Chief Dennis Rubin.
Fire department officials have been included in preparation meetings with security and others as the head of the Catholic church was finalizing his plans for his first trip to the U.S.
Although he's unable to provide specific details or numbers of personnel assigned, Rubin said they are once again relying on people with expertise in things like hazardous materials, weapons of mass destruction and EMS.
Rubin said protecting the city where the president resides, and international heads of state and millions of tourists visit, brings challenges on a daily basis.
The State of the Union Address, which he called an amazing event, attracted many heavy hitters.
Also, a few weeks ago there were three major sports events in Washington at the same time. Each attracted more than 25,000 people.
The department works closely with city officials on a daily basis to insure that people have a safe experience while they're in Washington.
Since coordination is so important, many fire officials also have security clearances to allow them to function along side high-ranking federal agents.
"We depend on individuals with keen knowledge and abilities," he said.
A detailed action plan has been developed for the papal visit. "There will be a unified command center, and everyone will be involved."
Rubin said he looks forward to meeting Pope Benedict.
