As Cincinnati authorities field dozens of calls a day about suspicious packages and white powder, representatives from the FBI, local police and fire agencies are coordinating what they will do if any lead to a real terrorist threat.

        The most recent discussions have focused on anthrax, the potentially fatal bacterial infection that has turned up in letters in three states and Washington, D.C.

        Although no cases have been confirmed in the Tristate, the FBI and local authorities have worked out a response plan if a serious threat arises.

        “There's a protocol that's been established,” said FBI spokesman Ed Boldt. “We're getting literally hundreds of calls from citizens concerning the Sept. 11 attacks, not just about anthrax.”

        For the most part, local authorities will respond to calls related to businesses and homes, while federal authorities will focus on government facilities.

        If anthrax or another biological agent is suspected, the Cincinnati fire division's hazardous materials unit will handle the material.

        “It's a cooperative effort,” said Lt. Kurt Byrd, spokesman for the Cincinnati Police. “It has to be a cooperative effort because it affects all of us.”

        Lt. Byrd said the police division also has assigned several officers to help the FBI follow up on the many calls and tips it receives every day from worried residents.

        The cooperation is an extension of anti-terrorism work that federal and local authorities have done for years.

        Now, they are putting some of what they learned into action.

        “Those (lessons) were to prepare us for any kind of large scale emergency,” Lt. Byrd said. “Things like what we're seeing now.”

2 guilty in morgue photo case
Amid anthrax scares, local agencies prepare for real thing
Anthrax pranksters face prosecution, Allen says
Fears similar to '62 missile crisis
Feds to audit airport-security firms
Accused boy says he kneed sister
Cranley pushing vote on housing
Fuller, Luken trade barbs over riots and aftermath
Generations spar in ads for city candidates
Money will await some graduates
Neighborhood build-up plans take two views
Political Notebook
Teen pleads guilty in tot's shooting
Tristate A.M. Report
HOWARD: Some Good News
SAMPLES: Clean politics
Clermont County clinic among 90 to get threats
Fight intensifies over hospital move
Hospital plans argued by two jurisdictions
Loveland hires assistant city manager
Mason teacher talks resume
Pupils honor deceased principal
Chao: Existing programs suitable for those in need
Pioneering lawmaker honored
Taft urges increase in taxes
ABA jolts bench hopes
Adult 'zone' discussed
Death-penalty foes get forum
Highlands graduate tested
Madison Theater to unveil face lift
New chief begins with outreach
No vaccine, so flu shots off at present
PETA wants to keep Morrow trainer from regaining license