Placing the safety of Westchester County’s children and families at the forefront, County Executive George Latimer has released a new video as part of an
ongoing effort aimed at preventing infant deaths due to unsafe sleeping environments.

The ABCs of Safe Sleep, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics and others, explains that the safest way for babies to sleep is alone, on
their backs and in a crib.

The video was created in partnership with the county Departments of Health, Social Services, Community Mental Health and the Westchester Institute for Human Development.  According to the county Department of Social Services, Westchester County has lost 27 children since 2016 who were in an unsafe sleeping environment, including eight related fatalities in 2021.

“We know that babies who sleep on their backs are much less likely to die of SIDS than babies who sleep on their stomachs or sides,” said Dr. Sherlita Amler,
county health commissioner. “In addition to placing baby to sleep on his or her back, it is equally important that baby sleep alone in his or her crib. That means no bed sharing with adults or siblings, as well as keeping soft objects and loose bedding out of baby’s crib to reduce the risk of entrapment, suffocation, or strangulation.”

President and CEO of Feeding Westchester Karen C. Erren added, “Educating the community about the health and safety of our children—whether through
proper nutrition or safe sleeping habits—is critical to ensure their ability to thrive in the future. We are fortunate to be able to help the County reach thousands of families every day with essential information like ‘The ABCs of Safe Sleep’ initiative through our collaborative and vast network of community partners across the County.” (Submitted)

All parents and caregivers should use the tips listed below to keep your baby safe, and reduce the risk of Sudden Unexpected Infant Death, SUID, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. The flyer features the Do’s and Don’ts of Safe Sleep, along with an explanation of the ABCs of Safe Sleep:
Alone:
• Baby should always sleep alone in a crib.
• Share the room, not the bed. Baby can share a room with parents, in a separate crib.
• Baby should not co-sleep, or share a crib with a sibling or pet.
• No blankets, pillows, toys or bumpers.
• Dress baby in one more layer of clothing than you for warmth, and use a sleep sack.
Back:
• Always place baby on his/her back.
• No sleeping on side or tummy.
• Tummy time is for supervised play time only.
• No pillows or wedges in the crib.
Crib:
• Baby sleeps safety in a separate crib or bassinet.
• Use tightly fitted sheets with no blankets.
• Never allow baby to sleep on a couch.
• No futons, chairs or waterbeds.
For more information, please visit https://health.westchestergov.com/safe-sleep
Photo/Gustavo Cultivo