Experts in North Dakota and Minnesota Stress Safe Sleep to Prevent Infant Deaths

FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA — Health officials across North Dakota and Minnesota are renewing warnings for parents and caregivers after more than 270 infants have died since 2019 from sudden unexpected infant death (SUID) — many linked to unsafe sleeping conditions. Experts say these tragedies are often preventable through simple but vital safety practices.

Unsafe Sleep Remains a Major Risk Factor

According to state health data, unsafe sleep environments remain one of the leading causes of infant mortality in the region. Many deaths occur when babies are placed to sleep in cluttered cribs, shared beds, or with soft bedding and pillows that can obstruct their breathing.

Medical experts emphasize that the safest place for an infant to sleep is in their own crib or bassinet, on a firm, flat mattress with no blankets, bumpers, or stuffed animals. Babies should always be laid on their backs, which keeps airways open and significantly reduces the risk of suffocation.

‘Your Baby Is Worth It,’ Expert Says

Jody Jordet, community life educator at Sanford Health, said that while maintaining safe sleep practices can be challenging for new parents, the effort is worth it. “Safe sleep is hard, but your baby is worth it,” Jordet said. “Nothing about a baby that’s brand new or in the first six months is going to be particularly easy. You have to learn a lot as do they, and safe sleep is one of the hardest but most important things that you can work with them on.”

Experts recommend dressing infants in a single layer, such as a wearable blanket or sleep sack, to prevent overheating. Additional blankets or pillows should be avoided entirely.

Simple Steps That Save Lives

In addition to placing babies on their backs in a bare crib, experts stress several other key tips to ensure safe sleep:

• Keep the room temperature comfortable — not too warm or cold.
• Maintain a smoke-free environment, as exposure to smoke increases SUID risk.
• Avoid bed-sharing; instead, keep the crib close to the parents’ bed for convenience and safety.
• Make sure the crib or bassinet meets current safety standards, with no gaps or broken slats.

Healthcare providers also recommend educating babysitters and family members about safe sleep habits to ensure consistent care at all times.

A Continuing Effort to Protect Infants

Public health campaigns in both states continue to raise awareness, reminding caregivers that these small decisions can mean the difference between life and death. Hospitals and community programs frequently provide safe sleep kits, including fitted sheets, sleep sacks, and informational resources for new parents.

Experts say that by following safe sleep guidelines, families can significantly reduce infant deaths and create a safer environment for their newborns to thrive. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to reach out to local hospitals, public health departments, or family resource centers for assistance or education on safe infant sleep.

Families across the Midwest can find more parenting safety resources and local community health updates at NapervilleLocal.com, where health and family well-being are always in focus.