“If an infant doesn’t have a medical problem that would put them at risk of choking in general, being put on their back to sleep does not increase their risk of choking,” he said. “For most babies, sleeping on their back is the safest position.”
He added that unsafe sleep practices often stem from habits rather than intention.
“If any infants are more at risk than others, it is because families may be less likely to practice safe sleep recommendations,” Fernández y García said. “There are many reasons for that, which is why conversations with trusted medical providers and community organizations are so important.”
Between 2017-2021, the Sacramento County Child Death Review Team and Fetal Infant Mortality Review Five-Year Report states that 67 infants in Sacramento County died from sleep-related causes during the five-year period.
Annual deaths ranged from a low of 10 in 2019 to a high of 19 in 2021. The report found that 64 of 67 of the deaths involved at least one unsafe sleep condition.
The City of Sacramento says data shows that since the Safe Sleep Baby campaign started, Sacramento County infant sleep-related deaths decreased by 54% among African American infants, and the disparity gap in deaths between African American infants and all other racial groups has decreased by 60%.
Beyond hospitals, the campaign reaches families through community resource centers, baby showers, support groups and neighborhood community incubator leads, making sure parents and caregivers have access to education and, when needed, safe sleep spaces for infants.
Towner said one of the most rewarding parts of the work is watching families change their practices after understanding why safe sleep matters.
“They’ll tell me, ‘My mom said that’s not how we used to do it,’” Towner said. “But once they understand the reason behind it, a light bulb goes off. Then they go home and teach their family members.”
She hopes safe sleep education eventually becomes universal.
“I would love for Safe Sleep Baby education to be standard in every hospital before families go home with their newborn,” she said. “Knowledge is power, but applied knowledge is what saves lives.”
Health advocates say ongoing education about safe sleep practices is critical for anyone caring for an infant.
For Marshall, the message to new parents is simple.
“You’re doing great,” she said. “Being a parent comes with a lot, but don’t be afraid to ask for help or learn something new. There are people who care about you and your baby, and these resources exist to help families keep their children safe.”
To learn more about the campaign or for assistance, contact the Information & Referral Line at 916-244-1900.