Whether you're bundling up to beat the cold or cooling off with air conditioning, please remember, if you are caring for an infant, even the coziest cuddle can become a tragedy if safe sleep guidelines aren’t followed.
The Westchester County Departments of Health and Social Services want to remind parents and caregivers that the shattering accidental loss of a child's life can be prevented by practicing the ABCs of Safe Sleep to protect our youngest residents.
"A" Is for Alone:
- Always let baby sleep alone in a crib, never in a bed with another person or pet where baby could be smothered. Share your room, not your bed. Room-sharing lets you keep a close watch over your baby while preventing accidents that might happen when baby is sleeping in an adult bed.
- NO amount of time is safe for a baby to co-sleep. Often parents only intend for their infant to be with them for a few minutes in bed, but the parents end up sleeping too and then tragedy can result.
- Only have a firm mattress and tight-fitting sheet in the crib.
- No blankets, pillows, bumpers or toys.
- Dress baby in one more layer of clothing than you.
"B" Is for on Baby's Back:
- Always place baby to sleep on his or her back, up to their first birthday.
- No sleeping on tummy or sides.
- Tummy time is for supervised play time.
- No pillows or wedges in crib.
"C" is for Crib:
- Baby should sleep in a safe and separate crib or bassinet.
- Use a tight-fitted sheet with no blankets.
- Never allow baby to sleep on a couch.
- No futons, chairs, waterbeds or dresser drawers.
We know that sleep-deprived nights can make it hard to think clearly. If you’re feeling overtired, there’s a greater risk of accidentally falling asleep while holding or feeding your baby. This can be especially dangerous if the baby slips under bedding, into couch cushions, or beneath you.
To reduce this risk:
- Keep your baby’s crib or bassinet next to your bed, so you can feed and soothe them safely.
- Return baby to their crib right after feeding.
These simple steps can save lives. Let’s keep our babies safe, warm, and secure—no matter what the weather brings.
The County has established a web page where people can review the ABCs of Safe Sleep, see videos on safe sleep practices, and find more information and resources, in English and Spanish.