Nevada

In Nevada, there are various resources and programs available to support safe sleep practices for infants and help families access cribs or sleep spaces to ensure their baby’s safety. These initiatives are designed to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related deaths by educating parents and providing safe sleep options.

Safe Sleep Guidelines
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and Nevada health organizations recommend the following safe sleep practices:

• Place babies on their backs for every sleep.
• Use a firm mattress in a crib, bassinet, or play yard with no soft bedding, pillows, or toys.
• Share a room with your baby but avoid bed-sharing.
• Avoid overheating by dressing the baby in layers that are appropriate for the temperature.

Learn more about safe sleep practices through the Safe to Sleep® campaign.

Free or Low-Cost Cribs
Families in need of cribs or safe sleep spaces can access support through the following programs:

Nevada Safe Sleep Program
Run by the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services, this program provides education and resources to families, including free or low-cost portable cribs for eligible families. Learn more.

Cribs for Kids Programs
The Cribs for Kids Program in Nevada is funded by the Title V Maternal Child Health Block Grant, supervised by the Maternal and Infant Health Program Coordinator, and implemented by the Regional Emergency Medical Authority (REMSA). Cribs for Kids targets underserved communities through an educational campaign promoting safe sleep conditions for infants. This national initiative partners with local organizations in Nevada to provide safe sleep education and distribute free cribs to families in need.

The Nevada Cribs for Kids Program and supporting Safe Sleep media and materials are promoted by the Division of Public and Behavioral Health (DPBH), Division of Child and Family Services (DCFS), Women Infants and Children (WIC), Carson City Health and Human Services (CCHHS), Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD), and Washoe County Health District (WCHD).

Safe Sleep Awareness
The Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health (DPBH) announces the launch of Safe Sleep Awareness Month on October 1, 2018. Safe Sleep practices include placing a baby to sleep ALONE, on their BACK, and in a CRIB- at all times, no exceptions. Skin-to-skin contact is recommended for all babies, and bonding is very important. Infants who are brought into bed for feeding or comforting should be returned to their own crib when the baby falls asleep or the caregiver is ready to return to sleep. Keeping the baby’s crib in your room is recommended for the first six months, preferably until the baby turns one. Blankets, pillows, and other soft items should not be in the baby’s crib. Safe Sleep for babies includes a smoke-free environment and breastfeeding.

ALONE: Do not sleep with a baby ever. Do not share sleeping spaces – even with siblings.
On BACK: Placing a baby to sleep on their back greatly reduces infant deaths.
In a CRIB: Use a firm crib mattress covered by a tight-fitted sheet. Do not put the baby to sleep on an adult bed or couch.

WIC Program
The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program in Nevada offers safe sleep education and referrals for cribs to low-income families.

Education and Support

Nevada Injury Prevention Program
Provides education and outreach on safe sleep practices across the state.

Local Health Districts and Public Health Centers
Nevada’s local public health departments and clinics often offer safe sleep classes, consultations, and resources for new parents. Contact your local health district for more details.