Safe Sleep Program

Three Rivers Ambulance Authority has partnered with the Indiana Department of Health to reduce the number of infant deaths relating to unsafe sleeping conditions for infants. TRAA is the first EMS agency in the State to offer such a program.

The Safe Sleep Program partners encourage parents and caregivers to remember their ABCs when it comes to a safe sleep environment for infants:

Alone on the Back in a Crib

Alone

• Share the room but not the bed.
• Keep pillows, blankets, bumper pads, stuffed animals and other soft bedding materials out of the sleep area.

On the Back

• Babies should sleep on their backs.
• Sleep-positioning products, such as wedges, that claim to keep children safe are dangerous and not recommended.

In a Crib

• Use a firm sleep surface, such as a crib, bassinet or portable play area, covered by a fitted sheet. Couches, chairs, and beds are too soft and a trapped child could suffocate between cushions or pillows.
• Move the baby to the firm sleep surface if he or she falls asleep in a car seat, stroller or carrier.
• Make sure the crib, bassinet, or play area is in good condition, meets current safety standards, and has not been recalled. Check www.recalls.gov to be sure it has not been recalled.

In addition to distributing the Infant Survival Kits, TRAA is providing a free sleep safety classes to parents and caregivers on the third Monday of every month at 2 p.m. The classes will teach important sleep safety tips and provide attendees with a free portable play area.

For more information about the sleep safety classes and program details, please call (260) 423-1436. In an emergency situation after hours, weekends and holidays, call (260) 420-8722.