D.C. Warns of Bat Risk

Halloween is more than a month away, but the District has apparently gone batty.

Seriously, the city's Department of Health is warning residents that the bats are posing a health risk to the public. Prince George's County recently released a similar warning.

"In recent weeks, the District has found that increased numbers of bats in homes are testing positive for rabies," a news release reads. "Residents should inspect and "bat proof" their homes by closing windows and doors, repairing broken window screens and other points of entry such as loose shingles, vents and chimneys to prevent bats from entering their homes."

And here's how to handle the situation if they still get in your house, according to the health department's news release:

Contact animal control for assistance by calling 311.

Contain the bat in the room. Close the windows. Close the door.

Leave the room after closing the door.

DO NOT handle the bat. Wait for the animal control officer to assist.

DO NOT release the bat. DOH may want to test the bat for rabies.

Repair home to keep out bats and other wild animals.