Gov. Josh Green, M.D., has issued a proclamation to recognize October as Infant Safe Sleep Month, which aligns with the national Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Awareness Month. This observance aims to raise awareness about the high rates of preventable infant deaths. The Safe Sleep Hawaiiʻs partnership, led by the Hawaii Department of Health, Maternal and Child Health Branch, works statewide to prevent infant sleep-related deaths by promoting safe sleep practices.
“According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 3,400 infants die each year in the US from sleep-related deaths,” said Annie Bell, MCHB supervisor. “Through Safe Sleep Hawaiʻi, we provide information, resources and referrals to help parents and caregivers create a safe sleeping environment for their babies, which includes following safe sleep recommendations.”
Recommendations for Reducing Sleep-Related Infant Deaths
The American Academy of Pediatrics provides important recommendations to help parents and caregivers reduce the risk of sleep-related infant deaths.
Sleep Position: Always place your baby on their back for nap time and bedtime or whenever they sleep.
Sleep Environment: Never put any objects even soft objects such as pillows, blankets, toys or crib bumpers in the sleep area where your baby is sleeping.
Room Sharing: Infants should sleep in your room and close to your bed but on a separate surface designed for infants, ideally for at least the first six months.
Safe Sleep Surface: Use a firm, flat, non-inclined sleep surface to reduce the risk of suffocation or wedging/entrapment. It is dangerous for babies to sleep on a couch, armchair or nursing pillow.
Swaddling: It’s okay to swaddle a baby, but stop swaddling as soon as they start learning to roll.
Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding to both term and preterm infants for at least the first six months if possible.
Pacifier Use: Offer your baby a pacifier at nap time and bedtime to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Avoid Smoking and Substances: Never smoke or use any substances around your baby, and avoid exposing them to anyone who does. Smoking and using substances such as alcohol, marijuana, opioids or other illicit drugs should be avoided during pregnancy and after birth to ensure a safe environment for the infant.