Westchester residents told to trap bats in homes

WESTCHESTER (WABC) -- Health officials in Westchester County are warning about the dangers of bats and rabies this summer.

Health commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler says that if county residents see a bat in their home, they should catch it and bring it in for testing.

The county Department of Health received 43 bats during the first week of August.

None of them tested positive for rabies, allowing residents to avoid preventative shots.

But 17 people who were exposed to a bat and did not catch the animal had to begin preventive treatment.

Without the bat to test, anyone who has come in contact with one will probably need rabies shots.

Don't know how to catch a bat if one is in your home? Here's how: