Every year almost 4,000 infants die unexpectedly in the US and Kern Medical has launched a campaign to help fight that disturbing trend here in Kern County.
The hospital says SUID totals are on the rise and in order to prevent those needless deaths they're giving eligible new moms portable cribs as part of their sleep safe campaign.
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Medical experts say that children in their first two years of life are at the highest risk.
Parents should watch out for the three leading causes of SUIDs which are suffocation, entrapment and strangulation.
Officials say all new moms, families and caregivers should follow the ABC's of safe sleep.
- A is for alone. Infants need to sleep alone. Set up the infant's sleeping area near mom, but NOT in the same bed.
- B is for back. Infants are safest when they sleep on their backs. This reduces their risk of suffocation.
- C is for crib. Babies should sleep in their own crib, on a firm mattress with a tightly fitted bottom sheet. No blankets or quilts or comforters. Sleepwear provides enough insulation. No crib bumpers or toys.
To learn more about Kern Medical's crib giveaway and Safe Sleep Campaign, visit KernMedical.com/safebabies
