Residents Warned About Sick Fox Attacks

The Franklin Lakes Board of Health and Tyco Animal Control are reminding residents to avoid contact with wildlife in light of a possible rabid fox that attacked two children, a woman and a dog in three separate incident near the High Mountain Reserve in Wayne last week. While no one was injured in the attacks Wayne Police Capt. James Clarke told Patch the animal "showed signs of being sick" and they "suspect the animal to be rabid."

"We would like to remind all residents that at this time of year, animals are coming out of hibernation," the message from Tyco and the Board of Health states. "People should be careful to avoid all contact with wildlife and any other animals they are unfamiliar with, even if an animal looks young and helpless. All warm-blooded animals can carry rabies."

Residents are advised to notify police  when they encounter wildlife during the day or "acting in a drunken state." The Franklin Lakes Police can be reached at 201-891-3131.

The Board of Health also advises residents to not feed wildlife and to be aware of your surroundings when hiking.

"Do not try to contain or corner any animal, as all animals bite when they feel threatened," they said. "If we all act in a reasonable manner, humans and animals can cohabitate very successfully.