(WBBM NEWSRADIO) – The LaPorte Fire Department has a new addition that the chief hopes will soon save lives.
On the side of Fire Station 2, there is now a Safe Haven Baby Box where, beginning Thursday afternoon, babies can be safely surrendered, no questions asked.
LaPorte Fire Chief Andy Snyder says it's something they've been wanting to do for some time.
“One of the nearby volunteer departments installed one several years ago, and they have had instances where babies have been placed in the box,” he said.
Once the surrendered baby is placed in the box, it locks, and a silent alarm will alert first-responders so the baby can be safely retrieved and taken care of.
“We wanted to give another option for a mother in distress or parent in distress,” Snyder aid.
A blessing ceremony will take place at noon Thursday to activate the Safe Haven Baby Box, which was paid for by donations and a grant from the state of Indiana.
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