Police suggest these safety tips in the event of an encounter with a fox, skunk, bat, raccoon or other wild animal:
Steer clear: leave the area or give the animal a way out. Do not run; it may stimulate the animal’s instinct to chase.
Stand and face the animal, make eye contact and back away.
Fight back if attacked. Convince the animal you are a danger to it. Kick it, hit it with a stick, wave your arms. Once an attack has begun, be as aggressive as possible.
Do not attempt to touch or pick up injured or dead animals; some carry airborne diseases and some illnesses can be transmitted to humans via touch. If you are scratched or bitten by a suspect animal, wash all skin surfaces with soap and warm water and consult a physician immediately. The doctor will decide if anti-rabies treatment is warranted. If so, it should be started as soon as possible.
Alert University Police immediately to the following: encounters with nocturnal animals during the daytime; lethargic animals; wild animals unafraid of humans; and animal corpses. Dial the UPD at 826-5555.