The Barry County Health Department hosts free safe sleep education sessions for new and expecting parents and caregivers. These events provide hands-on demonstrations, expert guidance, and even free portable cribs for families in need that meet certain requirements.

Every year, thousands of infants in the U.S. lose their lives due to sleep-related incidents, including Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and accidental suffocation. However, by following safe sleep recommendations, these risks can be significantly reduced.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends placing babies on their backs for both naps and nighttime. Infants should sleep alone on a firm, flat surface, such as a crib or bassinet with a fitted sheet, and without soft bedding, pillows, or stuffed toys. By keeping the baby’s sleep area in the same room as caregivers for at least the first six months can also lower the risk of sleep-related deaths.

If you have any questions regarding the Barry County Health Departments Safe Sleep program please give us a call at 417-847-2114.

Publisher’s note: This article is courtesy of Barry County Health Department, located at 90 Barry County Drive in Cassville. The Department may be reached at 417-847-2114.