- Downloadable Digital Materials
- Learn More about Sudden Unexpected Infant Death and Safe Sleep
- Nationwide Bereavement Resources
- Louisiana-Specific Resources
- 2017 Safe Sleep Campaign
FACTS ABOUT SAFE SLEEP
The information below is based on data from the 2020-2022 Child Death Review Report.
- Each year in Louisiana, about 90 infant deaths are classified as Sudden Unexpected Infant Deaths (SUID).
- A SUID is a sudden and unexpected death during infancy, whether explained or unexplained (including Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).
- Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is assigned to infant deaths that cannot be explained after a thorough case investigation. This includes scene investigation, autopsy, and review of the clinical history.
- In Louisiana, most Sudden Unexpected Infant Deaths occur when the infant is one to three months old.
- The following are facts about Louisiana’s Sudden Unexpected Infant Deaths
- 87% of infants were sleeping with other people
- 99% of infants were sleeping somewhere other than a crib or bassinet
- 71% of infants were sleeping with loose bedding or toys
- Other risk factors for Sudden Unexpected Infant Deaths includes stomach or side sleeping, pre-term birth or low birth weight. Cigarette smoke or alcohol in the home, and drug or tobacco use during pregnancy are also risk factors.
- About one in five Sudden Unexpected Infant Deaths occur while someone other than a parent takes care of an infant. Watch this video with a community advocate in Louisiana to learn more.
- While there has been progress, Sudden Unexpected Infant Death is still more likely to occur in Black communities.
Learn more about Sudden Unexpected Infant Deaths in Louisiana in the latest Child Death Review Report. Learn the steps to safe sleep by visiting this webpage.
Downloadable Digital Materials
Steps to Safe Sleep Handout
A shareable handout that lists all of the steps to safe sleep.
Parent-Friendly Postcard
A shareable postcard listing all the steps to safe sleep.
Safe Sleep Flyer
A shareable flyer with quick facts and tips about how to follow safe sleep practices.
Learn More about Sudden Unexpected Infant Death and Safe Sleep
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Info to help parents and caregivers reduce the risk of sleep-related deaths and help babies sleep safely.
Charlie’s Kids
Provides quick, life-saving tools to ensure each baby sleeps safely for every sleep.
American Academy of Pediatrics
Includes articles written by family medicine doctors to help families stay up-to-date on safe sleep guidelines.
American Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Institute
Conducts research and provides education and family support related to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.
Safe to Sleep Campaign, National Institute of Health
Educates caregivers and providers about ways to protect babies during sleep with tips, resources, and training.
Nationwide Bereavement Resources
The Compassionate Friends
This non-profit supports local chapters across the country. They are family support groups specifically for those who have lost children.
CJ First Candle
This non-profit offers a 24-hour hotline for grief counseling and other resources. They also provide educational and health promotion materials.
Bereaved Parents of the USA
This is a non-profit self-help group that offers support, compassion, and hope, especially to the newly bereaved. They are open to all parents, grandparents, and siblings regardless of their age. There are no dues or fees to become a member.
Safe to Sleep Campaign Grief and Infant Loss Resources, National Institute of Health
This campaign provides information about organizations that provide resources to families who have lost a baby.
Louisiana-Specific Resources
Resources in Your Area
Besides the nationwide resources above (not a complete list), there are also organizations in your area. Use this resource to contact the maternal child health coordinator in your area to learn about the resources near you! • Partners for Healthy Babies Website and Helpline
Medicaid Providers
Find Medicaid providers in your area.
Louisiana Children and Family Services
Find health-related programs, resources, and materials to support your family’s needs.
WIC Providers
Find a WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children) provider in your area.
Louisiana Breastfeeding Coalition
Enter your zip code to find a list of breastfeeding resources near you. New statewide and local resources are being added on a regular basis.
Mental Health Services Locator
Privately search for treatment centers that help with mental health problems and substance use.
Consumer Product Safety Commission
Helps families protect babies by making sure baby products are safe. Stay updated on the on dangerous items through product recalls, and providing safety advice.
2017 Safe Sleep Campaign
Safe Sleep Video: Babysitter Story
Kevionta, a babysitter, talks about safe-sleep.
Safe Sleep Video: Dad Story
Michael talks about safe sleep for his baby.
Safe Sleep Video: Mom Story
Ja'Hyree talks about safe sleep for her baby.
Safe Sleep Video: Nurse Story
Monique, a nurse, talks about safe sleep.
Safe Sleep Video: Grandmother Story
Shontrelle talks about safe sleep for her grandchildren.
