Security will be boosted around the Tristate this weekend, from shopping malls and Paul Brown Stadium to the Sauerkraut Festival.

HOTLINE

The Ohio Department of Health has opened a toll-free hot line to answer questions about bioterrorism or related public health issues. The number to call is 1-866-936-4636.   The line should not be used to report suspicious incidents or hoaxes. Residents with such concerns should notify their local law enforcement agency or call 911.   The information line will operate 8 a.m.-6 p.m. daily through Oct. 19.

        The FBI has warned it received information that there could be terrorist attacks in America in the next several days.

        While there has been no reported terrorist activity in the Tristate, this week has seen bioterrorism jitters result in emergency responses at a Sycamore Township doctor's office, a West Chester Frisch's, the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport and the Internal Revenue Serv ice Center in Covington. No hazardous materials were found.

        In the Warren County village of Waynesville, officials say they are taking greater precautions for this weekend's annual Sauerkraut Festival. Village Manager Kevin Harper said the festival is expected to attract at least 150,000 people.

        Waynesville officials have contacted the FBI and other agencies to seek advice. County agencies have also been briefed, Mr. Harper said.

        The Federal Aviation Administration has restricted all aircraft from flying near the event, and festivalgoers will notice more restrictions on vehicles, Mr. Harper said.

        “Many of our security measures will be very unobtrusive,” Mr. Harper added. “The average person coming here, they're not going to notice any difference.”

        Village officials say there was no serious thought about canceling the event.

        “I think the president has asked us to try to get on with our lives as much as we can,” Mr. Harper said. “And I think that's what we're going to do. Leave the worrying to us.”

        Since the Sept. 11 attacks, Tri-County Mall management has consulted with Springdale police and the FBI about security.

        “We've stepped up vigilance as far as our awareness,” said Paul Sauer, Tri-County's general manager. “We have not put any restrictions on any areas of the facility. Our systems are in place and are operating. ”

        Fans heading to Sunday's sold-out Bengals-Browns game at Paul Brown Stadium will again face bans on such items as large bags and coolers, said Bill Connelly, business manager for the Bengals. The same restrictions were in place for the Bengals' last home game, Sept. 23 against Baltimore.

        “The league has continued to require that we ban coolers, backpacks, large purses,” Mr. Connelly said. “Other items that are carried in will be subject to a thorough search.”

        Fans are encouraged to arrive early to avoid long lines caused by the security procedures.

        The team also will increase police presence at the stadium for the game and has kept the stadium itself in a secure state.

        “We know all comings and goings in this building,” Mr. Connelly said. “The building has essentially been locked down.”

        Earlier this week, Cincinnati City Manager John Shirey formed a task force of safety, health and public service employees to guard against terrorism and be ready to react.

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