Newborn Safe Haven

About the Safe Haven Law

Washington State’s Safe Law allows parents to anonymously transfer their unharmed infant within 72 hours of birth to a qualified person at a designated drop-off location without being subject to criminal liability. Parents are not required to provide any identifying information when transferring the newborn. They can also call or text the 24/7 Hotline at 1-888-510-BABY (2229) for immediate assistance.

Designated Drop-Off Locations

Parents must leave their infant with an on-duty staff member (a qualified person) during the hours of operation at designated locations.

There are 3 types of designated drop-off locations:

• Any hospital in the state of Washington. Emergency departments are open 24/7 and are the safest drop-off locations.
• A staffed fire station when it is open.
• A staffed rural health clinic when it is open.  

Legislation

For detailed information about Washington’s Safe Haven Law, please refer to the Revised Code of Washington 13.34.360, which covers the transfer of newborn to qualified person, criminal liability, notification to Child Protective Services and definitions.

We invite you to join us to ensure the safety of all newborns in Washington. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please email us at waperinatalcollaborative@doh.wa.gov.

Thank you for all you do to improve the health of the people in Washington.