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Safely Surrendered Baby Information

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Because of a new law called “Safe Arms for Newborns” you can make sure your baby is safe and nurtured even if you can’t do that yourself. If you are unable to keep or care for your baby you can leave your newborn infant–72 hours old or younger–in Safe Arms at any hospital emergency room or any fire station in San Mateo County. You don't need to give your name if you don't want to. There will be no charges filed against you (if no presence of abuse or neglect). Your baby will be given medical care and an adoptive home will be found. If you change your mind within 14 days, your baby will be returned to you if you can provide a safe home. Any hospital emergency room or full-time fire station in San Mateo County will take your new baby into their care–24 hours a day, 7 days a week–look for the “Safe Haven” sign and tell the nurse or firefighter there that you want to leave your baby in a “Safe Haven.” The nurse or firefighter will put a numbered identification bracelet on your baby and give you the matching bracelet. For the baby’s sake, they will ask you if you are willing to answer medical questions (Is there a family history of illness?) or give you a questionnaire you can take with you and mail back. Your baby will be given a medical examination and then taken into a foster or pre-adoptive home. If you do not claim the baby within 14 days, an adoptive home will be found as quickly as possible. If you want to reclaim your baby within 14 days, call Children and Family Services of San Mateo County (650) 802-7922 and say that you wish to claim an infant who was placed in a “Safe Haven.” The numbered identification bracelet will aid them in knowing which baby belongs to you. A social worker will meet with you to make sure you can provide a safe home for the infant. If you can, the baby will be returned to you -- no charges will be filed. If you leave the baby, but want to be involved in planning for your child's future–no matter what your age or background–you can help decide what kind of home to find if you call (650) 802-7922. San Mateo County Safe Havens can be found at every full-time fire station and hospital emergency room. Ask for a “Safe Haven” for your baby where you find the Safe Haven sign. Need help protecting your baby? Call Children & Family Services at (650) 802-7922 or 1-(800) 632-4615. Hacer clic aquí para información en Español. Click here for more information.