Last Updated: October 30, 2024
RICHMOND, Va. – In support of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Awareness Month, Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) partners with Henrico County Department of Social Services (HDSS) to encourage expecting and new parents and caregivers to talk their pediatrician or other healthcare provider about creating a safe sleep environment for children under the age of two.
“Knowledge is the key to reducing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Director of Community Programming Margo Webb. “Safe Sleep education helps families protect babies during a potentially dangerous time. We educate parents and caregivers about safe sleep practices as part of the Low Income Safety Seat Program.”
“In Henrico, we are collaborating across agencies to provide families with opportunities for education, understanding, and support regarding safe sleep practices for children under the age of two,” said Henrico County Department of Social Services Assistant Director of Service Programs Mandi Green. “We are committed to promoting the health and wellbeing of Henrico’s youngest residents and their families.”
RHHD and HDSS offer the following tips for creating a safe sleep environment. For more tips and information, visit the National Institutes of Health Safe to Sleep campaign.
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Always place babies on their backs for naps and when they go to sleep at night.
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Make sure the sleep surface is firm, flat, level, and covered only with a fitted sheet.
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Share a room with babies for at least the first six months. Give babies their own sleep space (crib, bassinet, or portable play yard) in your room, separate from your bed.
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Take the #ClearTheCrib Challenge and remove any extra items in the sleep area including soft objects, toys, and crib bumpers.
Approximately 3,700 infants die every year from sleep-related deaths in the U.S., the largest percentage of non-natural infant deaths.