Local Authorities Take Safety Steps To Prevent Fires

While government agencies rushed relief to New England communities engulfed by forest fires, Cambridge authorities last night maintained strict security measures to prevent any local outbreaks.

In compliance with a state-wide order, all wooded areas have been closed to the public. This will rule out any hunting expeditions or picnics and has already caused cancellations of geology field trips. Kirtley F. Mather, professor of Geology, said last night that proposed excursions to the Pine Hills site in Medford will be resumed as soon as the threat of forest fires has been eliminated.

Meanwhile all geology laboratory trips have been transferred to Beach Bluff. In Cambridge last night police enforced a ruling that forbids outdoor fires of any kind. Leaf disposal by burning will have to be discontinued until rains alleviate the current danger.

"We can't even allow the use of outdoor incinerators," the Central Square desk sergeant reported last night. "So far, almost everyone has cooperated," he said, "but any instances of violation will be quickly investigated."

Halloween spirit will be at a low ebb this Friday when local urchins make their rounds without benefit of lighted jack-o-lanterns. Chances of their being permitted seem slight, police said.