Fire Station Protocol

The Abandoned Infant Newborn Protection Act requires that every fire station must accept a relinquished newborn infant in accordance with the law. After the relinquishment of a newborn infant, fire station personnel must arrange for the transportation of the infant to the nearest hospital. A criminal investigation may not be initiated solely because a newborn infant is relinquished pursuant to this Act unless there is evidence that the child is not 30 days old or less, or if there is evidence of abuse or child neglect. Upon receiving a newborn infant, personnel should make a physical appraisal of the condition of the infant and if any signs of abuse or neglect are noted, the relinquishing person should be held until an investigation can be completed.  A detailed example of a fire department protocol can be found by clicking here.  If you would like to purchase a sign for your safe haven location you may order one from the National Safe Haven Alliance by completing the form found here.

Important Documents needed in the case of a relinquishment:

• Adoption Agencies in Illinois
• Birth Parent Information Packet (English)
• Birth Parent Information Packet (Spanish)
• Birth Parent Information Packet (Polish)

Click here for a copy of the Fire Station Safe Haven Signs Directive.

SAB’s crisis line is always open.  Please don’t hesitate to contact us with questions at (888)510-BABY.