Safe Sleep Information
💤 Safe Sleep for Babies
Protecting our community’s youngest members—one safe night at a time.
Each year, thousands of infants die unexpectedly during sleep. Many of these tragedies can be prevented with proper safe sleep practices. The Fire Department is committed to helping families create a safe sleep environment for every baby.
🛏️ What Is Safe Sleep?
Safe sleep means putting your baby to sleep in a place and position that reduces the risk of:
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
Suffocation
Entrapment or strangulation
👶 The ABCs of Safe Sleep
Follow these guidelines every time your baby sleeps, for naps and bedtime:
A = Alone
Baby should sleep alone in their own crib, bassinet, or portable play yard.
➤ No pillows, blankets, toys, or bumper pads in the sleep area.
B = Back
Always place baby on their back to sleep.
➤ This is the safest position to reduce the risk of SIDS.
C = Crib
Baby should sleep in a safe crib with a firm mattress and tight-fitting sheet.
➤ Avoid sleeping on couches, chairs, or adult beds.
❌ Unsafe Sleep Practices to Avoid
Co-sleeping with baby in an adult bed
Letting baby sleep on a sofa or armchair
Using soft bedding like pillows, blankets, or stuffed animals
Overheating baby with too many layers
✅ Tips for a Safe Sleep Environment
Use a certified crib that meets current safety standards
Keep baby’s sleep area in the same room as parents for the first 6-12 months
Dress baby in sleep clothing instead of using loose blankets
Avoid smoking or exposing baby to secondhand smoke
Breastfeeding and using a pacifier at nap or bedtime can reduce SIDS risk
📣 Need a Safe Place for Baby to Sleep?
S.S.E.S.A. partners with local agencies to provide free or low-cost cribs and sleep education to families in need.
📚 Safe Sleep Resources
American Academy of Pediatrics – Safe Sleep Recommendations
🧑🚒 We’re Here to Help
S.S.E.S.A. offers:
Community education sessions
Sleep safety checks during home visits
Crib distribution programs
Contact us to learn more:
517-625-7611
