Chattanooga, TN – The Chattanooga Fire Department recently participated in the official blessing and unveiling ceremony for a new Safe Haven Baby Box in East Ridge, expanding access to safe infant surrender resources in the region.
The ceremony took place at East Ridge Fire Rescue Station 1, where officials introduced the newly installed device as part of a broader effort to provide safe, anonymous options for families in crisis. The addition marks the second such life-saving resource in the area.
Fire officials noted that the department previously activated its own baby box at Chattanooga Fire Station 6 in November 2024. According to officials, a newborn was safely surrendered there in March 2025, highlighting the program’s intended purpose in emergency situations.
The initiative is part of the wider Safe Haven Baby Boxes program operated in partnership with Safe Haven Baby Boxes, which provides secure, legal, and anonymous surrender options for infants, along with immediate emergency notification to first responders.
Earlier in the week, Chattanooga Fire Chief Terry Knowles spoke to community members at Ridgedale Baptist Church about the program’s mission and importance. He was joined by Carol Burhenn, who played a key role in bringing a baby box to Chattanooga, as part of continued outreach efforts to increase public awareness.
Officials emphasized that expanding education about Safe Haven Baby Boxes remains a priority, noting that awareness can be critical in ensuring families in crisis know what options are available and how to access them safely.