SOCHI, October 9 (RIA Novosti) - Russian Emergencies Ministry employees have now completed all the safety preparations for the Russian Formula 1 Grand Prix in Sochi, the regional Emergencies Ministry said on Thursday.
"We have more than 1000 people at the ready with 200 units of equipment [at their disposal]. These are the local fire and rescue brigades and the best professionals from the Emergencies Ministry's southern regional center. The group is based at the 19th Fire Station created specially for protecting the [Sochi] Olympic Park," the statement read.
There are three main firefighting units. The first is comprised of 43 fire stations located along the circuit. According to timeframes, set by the International Automobile Federation (FIA), the firefighters must extinguish fires within 60 seconds of a crash.
The second unit consists of three firefighters trained to intervene in the event of a crash. Specially trained drivers have to transport the firefighters to the site of a crash in less than 90 seconds.
And the third unit will operate tanker trucks, positioned on the most dangerous parts of the circuit.
According to the statement, the group of the Emergencies Ministry will ensure not only the safety of the Sochi Autodrom but the safety of the whole city of Sochi.
Russia's first ever Grand Prix will be held at the Sochi racetrack between October 10-12.
The circuit is 5.852 km (3,636 miles) long and comprises 19 bends. The maximum speed which can be achieved on the track is 320 km/h (199 mph)
