Cambridge Police Will Increase City Patrols

Police have beefed up security measures in Cambridge since Friday, when a national terror alert warned of an increased risk of terrorist attack.

On Friday, President George W. Bush placed the nation at the second highest level of alert for the second time since Sept. 11, triggering increased security measures around the country.

In Cambridge, officers are on heightened alert, said Frank Pasquarello, spokesperson for the Cambridge Police Department (CPD).

“We will take whatever steps are necessary to secure areas in Cambridge that we feel could be possible targets,” Pasquarello said. Although he said he could not name specific locations, Pasquarello said these sites will see increased patrols.

According to Pasquarello, CPD has its own internal plan for responding to such alerts.

He also said Cambridge residents should not alter their daily routines because of the national “orange” alert.

“My suggestion is that people will have to go on with their normal way of living,” he said. “Go on with your business, just have some common sense.”

But residents should always watch out for suspicious activity, Pasquarello said.

Spokesperson Steven G. Catalano said the Harvard University Police Department (HUPD) will continue to protect University students in light of the warning.

“We’re aware of the heightened warning,” Catalano said. “We will as always evaluate any and all credible threats against the University.”

Although there have been no specific threats to the University, Catalano said HUPD officers are also on special alert.

Catalano said at this time the number of calls concerning suspicious activity have not increased.

Catalano said he couldn’t comment on exact officer numbers because of HUPD policy.

—Jenifer L. Steinhardt contributed to the reporting of this story.

—Staff writer Hana R. Alberts can be reached at alberts@fas.harvard.edu.