A newborn was safely surrendered at an Ennis fire station last month, marking the first time the city’s Safe Haven Baby Box has been used, officials said.
Texas Safe Haven Law in Action
The infant was placed inside the box at Fire Station No. 3 in May, according to a fire department news release. A silent alarm notified firefighters, who provided immediate care and medical attention to the unborn child who was safely surrendered.
Under the Texas Safe Haven Law, the parents will not face legal consequences for surrendering the baby. The law permits parents to anonymously give up a child without fear of prosecution, provided the infant is unharmed, shows no signs of abuse, is younger than 60 days old, and is left at a designated location such as a fire station or hospital.
“This Safe Haven Baby Box was installed to provide a secure alternative when someone feels they have nowhere else to turn,” said Fire Chief Bill Evans. “While we cannot share specific details regarding the infant or the circumstances of the surrender, we can confirm that the Safe Haven system functioned exactly as it was designed to — safely, securely, and with the utmost care.”
“Most importantly, today is an opportunity to raise awareness. If sharing their moment helps even one person understand safe surrender options and the resources available to them, then this conversation has made a meaningful difference,” Ennis Mayor Linda Isbell said at a press conference.
City officials said privacy laws prevent them from releasing information about the baby or the parents. They also did not disclose details about the circumstances of the surrender.
“While this moment carries many emotions, we are thankful that a loving and courageous choice was made to ensure this child was placed in caring hands. Our thoughts are with everyone involved, and we remain committed to providing a safe place and a hopeful beginning for those who need it most,” the Ennis Fire Department said in a social media post.
Original reporting: The Dallas Express — read the source article.
