The Hiram Police Department took to Facebook Saturday evening to issue a coyote alert. The alert came after officials received a call for approximately six coyotes being heard near the Hiram College Campus.
While at the scene, officials did not see any coyotes nor could they confirm their location.However, they issued the following reminders on what to do if you encounter a coyote.
- Keep your distance.
- Back away slowly while yelling and waving your arms. Throwing rocks and sticks might be effective. But don’t run.
- Call 911 only if your life is in danger or you are being threatened by coyotes or other animals.
- Keep dogs on leashes when walking them, as coyotes are much less likely to approach if a person is nearby.
- Look around your backyard for the animals before you let the dogs out.
- Never feed coyotes.
- Store trash in covered, heavy-duty animal-proof containers.
- Fence off outside animal enclosures and include a top.
- Don’t leave pet food and water out at night.
- Make sure pets’ rabies vaccination are up to date. If they come into contact with a wild animal the vaccination will save its life.
