Officials fine tune inauguration security

WASHINGTON, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- Local, state and U.S. officials huddled Tuesday, fine tuning plans to make sure Barack Obama's presidential inauguration goes off without a hitch.

Among those taking part in the closed-door session were U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff, District of Columbia Mayor Adrian Fenty, Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley, Virginia Gov. Timothy Kaine and Emmett Beliveau, executive director of the Presidential Inaugural Committee.

Obama is to be sworn in as president Jan. 20 in the nation's capital.

To get ready for that occasion, the officials discussed topics ranging from law enforcement and incident management to transportation, medical and fire safety planning, a statement released by Homeland Security said.

"The preparation for an event of this magnitude is a cooperative effort," the statement said. "No single entity can implement necessary security measures on its own. At present, 58 federal, military, state and city law enforcement and public safety agencies are working together to ensure a safe and smooth event."

Chertoff recently told CBS News he was "worried about the large number of people coming into the city."