Safe Surrender Public Service Announcement wins Northwest Emmy award

Video spreads awareness of Alaska's safe haven law, called "safe Surrender."

A public service announcement (PSA) created to bring awareness to Alaska's Safe Haven law picked up an Emmy Award in Seattle, Washington on June 7, 2014. The moving public service announcement was created by former Department of Health and Social Services communications manager Clay Butcher. Clay is currently the co-owner of Anchorage-based marketing firm, C+L Creative.

The Northwest Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences awarded the 2013 Emmy in the category of Community/Public Service for the video PSA.

The PSA was filmed in Alaska using all volunteer talent, including Captain Matthew McSorley of the Anchorage Fire Department.

Since becoming law in 2008, Alaska’s Safe Surrender Act allows a person — who feels she (or he) is unable adequately care for an infant — to surrender that infant (less than 21 days old) to a peace officer, firefighter, emergency medical service provider, health care provider, or another adult a parent reasonably believes can appropriately care for the infant. If done within the law, the parent may choose whether or not to provide additional information about the infant and family, and the parent will not be prosecuted.

View the award-winning video and learn more about Alaska’s Safe Surrender law on OCS’ website, here. You’ll find information about the law, as well as “what to do” guidance and other resources for people who receive an infant under the law. You’ll also find free downloadable flyers, perfect for printing and sharing.

Please spread the word. With your help, we want to ensure no Alaska infant is ever secretly abandoned again.