FIRST 5 is a partner in the Safe Sleep Awareness Campaign….

Karma King, mother who lost her child due to unsafe sleeping practices

"Unsafe sleep practices have been the cause of one-third of the deaths of Santa Clara County infants since 2005," said Dr. Michelle Jorden, Assistant Medical Examiner. "Thorough examinations that include working with families to re-enact the baby's sleeping situation have provided us with the data we need to fully understand unsafe sleep situations. Now, it is crucial that we teach all parents and caregivers what must be done to keep their babies safe while sleeping."

During a joint press conference on December 15, 2011 at a FIRST 5 Family Resource Center, Dr. Louis Girling and Dr. Michelle Jorden, physicians leading the County's Child Death Review Team, spoke on the causes and circumstances surrounding deaths of children in Santa Clara County due to unsafe sleeping practices. A mother also shared her tragic story about the loss of her baby due to unsafe sleeping practices.

"The only way to put a baby to sleep safely is alone, on his or her back, and in a crib or bassinet," said Deputy Health Officer Dr. Louis Girling. "It's so important for people to be aware of the dangers of sharing a bed with an infant, and to make sure the baby's sleeping space is clear of things like toys, blankets, or pillows."

FIRST 5 Chief Executive Officer, Jolene Smith introduced the Safe Sleep Campaign which will spread safe sleep messages throughout shopping malls, bus ads and radio public service announcements in the county. FIRST 5 will also be donating infant one-piece pajamas, or "onesies," with a safe sleep message to birthing hospitals for distribution to new parents.

"These deaths are heartbreaking," said Jolene Smith. "We must remember that unsafe sleeping practices can be prevented, and together with this campaign, we will help ensure that another precious life is not lost due to unsafe sleeping environments and practices."

For more information on Safe Sleep Practices please visit:
www.first5kids.org/safesleep or www.sccphd.org.