Wisconsin Rapids Fire Department to unveil new Safe Haven Baby Box

WISCONSIN RAPIDS, Wis. (WSAW) - The Wisconsin Rapids Fire Department is expanding resources for parents in crisis by installing a Safe Haven Baby Box at Fire Station 2, offering a safe and anonymous surrender option for newborns.

A public blessing and dedication ceremony is scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 22, at 3 p.m. at Station 2, located at 1641 W. Grand Ave.

The installation marks the 473rd Safe Haven Baby Box in the United States and the eighth in Wisconsin.

The temperature-controlled devices are built into exterior walls of fire stations and hospitals, allowing an individual to safely and legally place an infant inside before an automatic alarm notifies emergency medical personnel within minutes.

“We are the only organization providing complete anonymity, and we want these mothers to know we are there for them and their infant before and following a surrender,” stated Monica Kelsey, founder of Safe Haven Baby Boxes.

Local officials credited Wood County Supervisor Linda Casper, City of Wisconsin Rapids leadership, and members of the fire department for coordinating efforts to secure and install the device.

People who attend the ceremony will learn more about the program and how it supports vulnerable infants and parents facing crisis situations.

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