SWAMPSCOTT, Mass. (WHDH) – Swampscott police are urging residents to “use extreme caution” near wooded areas in the town after a teen was bitten by a coyote near the high school Saturday evening.
After notifying the environmental police, officers searched the woods but were unable to find the coyote that reportedly bit a 17-year-old as he was riding his bike.
The teen was reportedly taken to the hospital to be treated for his injuries.
In the bulletin, police offered a series of safety measures for residents should they find themselves confronted by a coyote:
- Do not run or turn your back
- Be as big and loud as possible
- Wave your arms and throw objects
- Face the coyote and back away slowly
- If attacked, fight back
Police also reminded residents to protect pets by keeping them on a short leash and avoiding known or potential den sites. They also suggested walking with a walking stick or a buddy and carrying a noise maker.
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