CISA & Cactus League partner for security tabletop exercise to protect spring training fans
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) joined the Cactus League, its teams and spring training facilities, and state and local partners for a virtual tabletop exercise to review pre-incident preparedness measures and response plans at stadiums during spring training. While several of the teams and stadiums regularly review plans and conduct drills, for the second year in a row, a leaguewide exercise was held to allow everyone to share best practices and discuss coordination should an incident affect more than one venue. The exercise scenario included an information and intelligence sharing piece among public and private sectors, and an active threat at a ballpark. Tuesday’s exercise was held virtually due to COVID-19 restrictions and was not in a response to any specific threat.
“As the nation responds to the coronavirus pandemic and decisions are made as to schedules and fan attendance at stadiums, the work to keep fans, players and others safe does not stop,” said CISA Acting Executive Assistant Director for Infrastructure Security Scott Breor. “Today’s exercise was just one of the many examples of the planning and coordination that takes place to prepare for a range of possible incidents. CISA looks forward to building upon our existing relationships working with the Cactus League, all 15 teams, and Arizona and local officials to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable spring training experience.”