Police warn residents of potential rabid raccoon in North Smithfield

NORTH SMITHFIELD, R.I. (WLNE) — The North Smithfield Police Department said there is a suspected case of a rabid raccoon in the town.

According to police, the animal was spotted in the area of Iron Mine Hill Road and Sayles Hill Road.

Police ask anyone who sees an animal acting “unusually” to call animal control.

North Smithfield police listed the following safety tips to prevent and handle potential exposure to rabies:

• Do not approach or feed unknown animals
• If bitten or scratched by an animal with a vaccination history that is unknown, wash wound immediately and seek medical attention
• Make sure pets have current rabies vaccination
• Do not leave food or trash outside to prevent attracting wild animals
• If a pet comes in contact with a potential rabid animal, immediately contact a veterinarian

For more information, police advise residents to visit the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management’s website or contact animal control.