The holidays are here, and many of you will be heading out of town this weekend to visit family or loved ones.
If you're traveling with a baby, we want to remind you to plan ahead so that your child has a safe space to sleep. As you're packing up the presents and holiday cookies, make sure you're also bringing a portable crib like a pack and play or a bassinet.
A baby dies nearly every other day in Michigan while sleeping in an adult bed, armchair or couch; with pillows or blankets; or with adults or other children, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.
Here at State of Opportunity, we've talked extensively about the importance of putting babies to sleep safely. My colleague Dustin Dwyer told you about the ABCs of safe sleep - babies should sleep Alone, on their Back and in an empty Crib.
MDDHS encourages families to follow these tips for safe sleep during every nap and nighttime routine:
- Place your baby on their back in a crib, bassinet or pack and play, with nothing else in their sleep environment.
- Plan ahead and take a portable crib with you when traveling.
- Use a firm mattress with a tightly fitted sheet.
- Keep baby’s sleep space clutter free – no pillows, blankets or toys.
- Avoid covering baby’s head or overheating. Instead of a blanket, consider using a sleep sack, wearable blanket or footed sleeper to keep baby warm.
- Remind everyone who cares for your baby, including babysitters and family members, how to keep baby safe while sleeping.
MDDHS Director Nick Lyon said in a press release:
It’s important that everyone caring for the baby, including grandparents, siblings, aunts and uncles, knows how to put a baby to sleep safely. If everyone knows the simple steps to safe sleep, we can all do our part in preventing an infant death.
Happy holidays, stay safe and we'll see you in the New Year!
