Each October, we observe Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Awareness Month to share life-saving information about safe sleep practices for infants. While the loss of a baby is a tragedy no family should face, following simple, evidence-based steps can greatly reduce the risk of SIDS and other sleep-related infant deaths.
Understanding SIDS
SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) is the sudden, unexplained death of an otherwise healthy baby younger than one year old, usually during sleep. Although the exact cause remains unknown, research shows that certain sleep environments and positions increase the risk.
Safe Sleep Basics: Back to Sleep, Every Night & Nap
Creating a safe sleep environment is one of the best ways to protect your baby. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends the following:
- Always place your baby on their back to sleep — for naps and at night.
- Use a firm, flat sleep surface, such as a safety-approved crib, bassinet, or portable play yard with a fitted sheet.
- Keep soft items out of the sleep space. No pillows, blankets, bumpers, or stuffed animals.
- Share your room, not your bed. The safest place for your baby to sleep is in your room, close to your bed but in their own sleep space, for at least the first 6 months.
- Avoid overheating. Dress your baby in light sleep clothing and keep the room at a comfortable temperature.
- Avoid exposure to tobacco smoke, alcohol, and drugs. These increase the risk of SIDS and other sleep-related deaths.
In recent years, the AAP has reinforced that breastfeeding, room sharing, and ensuring routine immunizations can all help reduce SIDS risk. Using a pacifier at nap time and bedtime may also be protective, once breastfeeding is well established.
If you use portable or inclined sleepers, swings, or car seats, remember — those are not safe for routine sleep. Babies should be moved to a flat, firm surface as soon as possible.
Support for Families & Caregivers
Parents, grandparents, and caregivers all play a role in keeping babies safe. Make sure everyone who cares for your infant — babysitters, relatives, daycare providers — knows and follows the same safe sleep rules.
If you’re struggling with finding safe sleep equipment or have questions about setting up your baby’s sleep area, our Women’s Health & Babies Born Healthy Program can help connect you with resources. Our Babies Born Healthy Program also offers “Ages and Stages,” a free class series for pregnant mothers and parents with infants up to 6 months old. Held every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month at the Federalsburg Judy Center, these sessions provide education and support on topics like prenatal care, healthy eating, self-care, caring for your baby, and Safe Sleep practices.
For more information, visit Safe to Sleep® or contact the Caroline County Health Department’s Women’s Health & Babies Born Healthy Program at (410) 479-8000.