The Florida Department of Health  reminds parents and caregivers that October is Safe Infant Sleep Awareness Month. In addition to having possible damage to homes during Hurricane Ian, several residents in our area have lost furniture, including a safe space for their baby to sleep.

To ensure safe sleep, parents and caregivers should follow the ABC’s:

• Alone – keep the crib, bassinet, pack and play, or other sleep area empty. There should not be any toys, bumpers, pillows, or blankets.

• Back – always place babies on their backs and on a firm surface to sleep.

• Crib – move infants who have fallen asleep in a swing, stroller, or car seat to a crib, bassinet, or pack and play.

Additionally, parents and caregivers should not bed-share with their babies; and anyone under the influence of drugs or alcohol should not rest with a baby.