A "baby safety island" was established in Guiyang, capital city of Guizhou province, on Wednesday. It is the first protective facility for abandoned babies in Guizhou province. In June 2011, the social welfare institute of Shijiazhuang city in Hebei province established the first "baby safety island" in China. Now, Guizhou is the second pilot province to set up a "baby safety island".
A "baby safety island" is an 8-square-meter house where abandoned babies can settle temporarily. The room has an infrared warning device, infant incubator, crib and air-conditioner. When a baby is placed in the room, the infrared alarm will ring. In 5 to 10 minutes, staff will move the baby to a hospital or welfare house as soon as possible.
The "island" is open 24 hours a day. Staff workers take turns patrolling, and security guards are responsible for daily maintenance and management.
"The 'baby safety island' can increase the survival rate of abandoned babies to prevent injury from the external environment," said Xiang Hui, dean of the Guiyang Children Welfare Association.
Tongren city is planning to set up a second 'baby safety island' in Guizhou province. Preparations are underway.
