October is Infant Safe Sleep Awareness Month. Unsafe sleep is a leading cause of infant death nationwide. Last year in Illinois alone, over 125 infants died before their first birthday due to unsafe sleeping practices. The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) is reminding parents and caregivers of three steps they can take to ensure the safety of the infant in their care.

These steps are as simple as ABC: Alone, Back, and Crib.

ALONE – Infants should always be alone in their cribs. They should not share a sleeping surface with adults, other children, or pets. Room sharing is safe, however, bed sharing poses inherent risks to the infant. Be sure to communicate sleep plans with babysitters, family, or other caregivers to ensure the Infant is placed safely.

BACK – Always be sure to place the infant on their back to sleep. Back sleeping reduces the risk of suffocation and Sudden Infant Death. Sleep-related injuries are more likely when the infant is not in a familiar environment or not in the care of their parents. Again, communicating safe sleeping practices to other caregivers is key to the infant’s safety.

CRIB – Always use a safety-approved crib, bassinet, or portable play yard for the infant. The crib should have a flat, firm mattress and only fitted sheets. The crib should not have pillows, bumper pads, or toys in it while the infant is sleeping. DCFS also strongly recommends that the infant not sleep in adult beds, infant swings, couches, chairs, or car seats when not riding in the car.

For more information on safe sleep practices, visit the DCFS’s Sleep Safety Page or call the DCFS at 217-785-2509.