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Hamilton County proclaims October 2025 "Safe Sleep for Babies Month"
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Summary
The Hamilton County Board of County Commissioners read a proclamation recognizing October 2025 as Safe Sleep for Babies Month and heard remarks from Cradle Cincinnati and local health departments highlighting reductions in sleep-related infant deaths and ongoing prevention efforts.
The Hamilton County Board of County Commissioners on Oct. 7, 2025 read a proclamation recognizing October 2025 as "Safe Sleep for Babies Month," highlighting countywide efforts to reduce sleep-related infant deaths.
The proclamation said Hamilton County has lost 212 infants to sleep-related deaths since 2011 and noted a 29% reduction in such deaths from 2013 to 2024. It also cited local prevention efforts, including distribution of nearly 1,000 cribs by the Cincinnati Health Department’s Cribs for Kids program in 2025.
Dr. Meredith Smith of Cradle Cincinnati, who spoke after the proclamation was read, thanked the commissioners for their support and said the collaboration among Cradle Cincinnati, Hamilton County Public Health and the Cincinnati Health Department has helped shape prevention strategies. "I do also believe that change is possible. And so when we communicate clearly the message around safe sleep — alone, back, crib — we can make it happen in Cincinnati," Dr. Smith said.
Commissioner Summer Adumas, who read part of the proclamation, said the statistic of 212 infants lost since 2011 was particularly affecting and shared a personal note about a family loss to underline the importance of the work. Other commissioners and agency representatives in the room thanked front-line staff and volunteers for daily efforts to promote safe sleep practices.
The proclamation text emphasized common, evidence-based safe-sleep practices, including placing infants on their backs in a safety-approved crib, bassinet or portable crib and avoiding bed-sharing, soft bedding, pillows and loose blankets. The county statement also listed partners involved in the effort and called for continued public awareness and coordination across health systems and community organizations.
After remarks, the commissioners invited staff and partner agency teams for a commemorative photo. The board did not take separate formal votes recorded on the proclamation during the staff meeting; the proclamation was read and acknowledged on the record.
