As cooler evenings arrive, the Berrien County Health Department is warning residents to take precautions as bats begin moving indoors in search of warmth.

Bats are the most common carriers of rabies in Michigan, a nearly always fatal illness once symptoms appear.

So far this year alone, 24 bat bites or scratches to humans have been reported in Berrien County, with one testing positive for rabies.

Health officials urge anyone who may have had contact with a bat to safely capture the animal and seek medical care right away.

For instructions on safe bat capture and rabies prevention, visit the Health Department’s website.