October is Safe Sleep Awareness month, and caregivers are encouraged to take measures to ensure their infants have a safe environment for sleeping.
Babies 0-12 months old should be placed on their backs in a crib, bassinet, or pack ‘n play every time they need rest. Mattresses should be firm with a tightly fitted sheet and be free of pillows, fluffy blankets, or toys.
Babies can be kept from overheating by using a sleep sack or footed pajamas and limiting the use of blankets. Caregivers should also avoid covering infant’s heads while they are sleeping.
The newly signed 2021 budget for the State of Michigan included funding for the Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies plan which provides services for expectant mothers. Those services include guidance for new parents and caregivers on infant sleep safety and can be accessed through the MDHHS Safe Sleep Website <HERE>.
Reporting for WGRT – Jessie Wiegand
