The Safe Baby law was passed in 2000, in response to a number of newborn infants abandoned in dangerous settings, such as ditches and dumpsters. Tragically, many of these babies died. Since then the Orange County Healthy Start Coalition, in partnership with Orange County’s Citizens Commission for Children, has been working to increase awareness about the provisions in the law.

An infant less than 1 week old is allowed to be left totally anonymously at a hospital emergency room or fire station (as long as there are no signs of abuse or neglect) without fear of prosecution for abandoning their child. They must give the baby to an employee at the sight and not just leave the baby on the doorstep. The baby will be given appropriate medical attention and placed for adoption.

It is estimated that over twenty babies in Florida, have been saved from abandonment and possible death, due to this law. The Coalition has posters and wallet-sized cards available for parties interested in displaying the information and Orange County has funded a local phone number, The Safe Baby Hotline, twenty four hours a day, to give information and assistance to anyone considering abandoning their baby. That number is 407-447-3242. We would appreciate everyone helping to spread the word.