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Village of McCook, Illinois

Safe Haven Illinois Safe Haven Law

Illinois Law

You can surrender your newborn — no questions asked — at any hospital, police station, or staffed fire station.

About the Law

The Illinois Safe Haven Law

30

Days Old or Younger

Your baby must be 30 days old or younger to be surrendered under the Illinois Safe Haven Law.

No Questions Asked

No one will ask your name, your reason, or any identifying information. You remain completely anonymous.

No Prosecution

As long as your baby has not been harmed, you are fully protected from prosecution under Illinois law.

Illinois law states that as long as you don't harm your baby, you can hand your newborn — 30 days old or younger — to personnel at any hospital, police station, or staffed fire station in Illinois for adoption, with no questions asked.

No one will ask your name. Your baby will receive immediate medical care and be placed into a loving family through adoption. You can even provide anonymous medical information so your baby will grow up with a medical history — without revealing who you are.

McCook Fire Department Is a Safe Haven Site

The McCook Fire Department is a designated Safe Haven location. Our firefighter/paramedics are on duty around the clock — you may surrender your newborn at our station at any time, day or night, with no fear of judgment or legal consequence.

Where to Go

Designated Safe Haven Locations

You may surrender your newborn at any of the following locations throughout Illinois. All are staffed and able to receive your baby safely and without question.

McCook Fire Department

Our station is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You may bring your newborn to us at any time — our team is trained and ready to help.

Any Staffed Fire Station

Any staffed fire station in Illinois is a designated Safe Haven location. Look for the nearest fire station if you need help immediately.

Any Hospital

Every hospital in Illinois accepts newborns under the Safe Haven Law. Hospital staff are trained to receive your baby and provide immediate medical care.

What to Expect

What Happens After You Surrender Your Baby

We want you to know exactly what will happen so you can make this decision with confidence. Your baby's safety and future is our only concern.

1. 1

   Your Baby Is Received Safely

   Personnel at the Safe Haven location will take your baby with care and compassion. No one will ask your name, your reason, or any identifying information.

2. 2

   Immediate Medical Care

   Your baby will receive a full medical evaluation and any necessary care right away. At the McCook Fire Department, our paramedics will ensure your baby is healthy and safe.

3. 3

   You May Provide Anonymous Medical History

   You can voluntarily provide anonymous medical information — such as family health history — so your baby has a medical record to grow up with. This is entirely optional and will not reveal your identity.

4. 4

   Adoption Into a Loving Family

   Your baby will be placed into the adoption system and matched with a loving family. Illinois has strong adoption laws to ensure your baby's long-term well-being and safety.

5. 5

   You Are Protected by Law

   As long as your baby has not been harmed, you are fully protected from any legal prosecution under the Illinois Safe Haven Law. You may leave without any fear of legal consequence.

You Are Not Alone

If you are in crisis, please know that help is available — and that choosing your baby's safety is a courageous act. We are here for you without judgment.

No Questions Asked

We will never ask your name or your reason. Your anonymity is fully protected under Illinois law.

24 / 7 Availability

The McCook Fire Department is staffed around the clock. You may bring your baby to us at any hour, any day of the year.

A Loving Future

Your baby will receive medical care and be adopted by a loving family — given the life and future every child deserves.

Need to talk to someone? The National Crisis Hotline is available 24/7 — free, confidential support.

Call or Text 988