DETROIT – Every two to three days, a baby in Michigan dies due to unsafe sleep practices, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.
In response, the Detroit Health Department is teaming up with DMC Hutzel Women’s Hospital during Michigan’s Safe Sleep Month to help teach parents and caregivers a potentially life-saving lesson.
Throughout the week of October 20, families visiting DMC Hutzel Women’s Hospital will see a striking side-by-side display in the hospital’s main lobby: one crib set up with “right” sleep practices, and another showing common, but dangerous, “wrong” ways babies are often put to bed.
The display is part of a broader educational push to raise awareness during National Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Awareness Month, which runs through October.
In addition, the Detroit Health Department is offering daily Safe Sleep classes at 11 a.m. all week.
Stacy Austin-Hicks attended the class Monday and learned that everything needs to come out, except the baby.
Another attendee, Leela Heholt had her baby, David, just two days ago and appreciates the safe sleep class.
“It can be something as simple as a little baby blanket,” Heholt said. “You think it’s a little chilly. It might be convenient that night, but it’s just not worth the risk, or letting a baby sleep on their stomach just because you don’t want to awaken them, you’ve got to do what’s right no matter what.”
The class also teaches the dangers of co-sleeping, accidentally or on purpose.
Sabrina Anthony, who is expecting twin girls in December, learned that co-sleeping twins isn’t safe, despite what she’s seen online.
“I was surprised, but that’s not safe,” Anthony said after learning about the risks associated with co-sleeping. “But, you read things online and they’re like oh you can...that’s not safe.”
Detroit residents who attend and complete a class this week will receive a free pack-and-play, while supplies last.
The classes are at 11 a.m. each day, and those interested in attending can sign up by calling 313-961-BABY.