Just after 7:00 a.m., Friday, August 12, 2005, a Prince George's County Fire Station became a Safe Haven for a 3-month-old infant.
An adult female, self-proclaimed to be the child's aunt, brought 3-month old "Baby Craig" to the rear entrance of Chillum-Adelphi Fire/EMS Station 34 and explained to firefighters that she could no longer care for the baby. The aunt had been caring for the infant for about one day after he was dropped off by one of the parents. The aunt provided a diaper bag full of supplies and formula as well as a child safety seat.
Maryland Fire Stations are part of a network of "Safe Havens" where firefighters will act as temporary guardians until a family or social services can be notified, all with no questions asked. The aunt provided information about the possible general location of one of the parents and information on the baby.
Firefighters observed that the infant was in good health and requested the assistance of the Prince George's County Police Department. Firefighters and police officers provided care for the infant as they awaited the arrival of Social Services. The infant momentarily became cranky, however, settled down after a quick change of diapers and then bottle of formula. Baby Craig slept the majority of the time while being held by the firefighters and police officers. The County Department of Social Services arrived to take custody of the child at about 11:00 a.m.
