Police are warning residents to be aware of their surroundings after a Fairfield woman was attacked by a hawk in her yard.

Police say that the incident happened last week at the victim's Old Mill Road home.

Residents tell News 12 that similar attacks have also happened in the area.

Police say two people from the state Department of Wildlife are patrolling the area and plan to move the hawk from its current nest.

They suggest walking in groups, constantly being aware of surroundings and calling if something happens to anyone.

"We recommend that if you're going outside with small pets or children and you see a hawk, we recommend you bring the children or small pets inside so that they don't get attacked,” said an official.

Police say that hawks typically attack people from behind and target their head.