Clay County Officials Urge Safe Sleep Practices After Two Infant Deaths

Staff Report

The Clay County Sheriff’s Office, led by Sheriff Mark Buchanan, in partnership with Clay County Department of Social Services, is urging parents and caregivers to follow safe sleep guidelines for infants after two sleep-related infant deaths were reported in the county within the past week.

Officials say sudden infant death and accidental suffocation are on the rise across North Carolina. Each year, more than 100 infants statewide die suddenly and unexpectedly while sleeping. An infant is defined as a child under one year of age.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, most of these deaths are linked to unsafe sleep environments. Common risk factors include blankets or loose items in a crib, infants sleeping on adult beds, or sharing a bed or couch with another person, a practice known as co-sleeping.

Local authorities stress that many of these tragedies are preventable by following recommended safe sleep practices. Caregivers are encouraged to ensure infants sleep alone, on their backs, and in a clear crib or bassinet free of blankets, pillows, and other soft items.

The Clay County Sheriff’s Office and DSS are asking the public to review available educational materials and take advantage of resources provided by Safe Sleep North Carolina, which offers guidance and literature focused on reducing sleep-related infant deaths. More information can be found through Safe Sleep North Carolina’s recommendations.

Officials say the recent deaths underscore the importance of continued education and awareness, noting that safe sleep practices can save lives.