Safe sleep - Small steps that make a lifesaving difference for Oklahoma babies

Every generation has its own parenting advice. From bedtime routines to soothing a fussy baby, families often pass down what worked for them. But what we know about infant sleep safety has changed.

And those changes matter.

At the Oklahoma Commission on Children and Youth (OCCY), our Child Death Review Board examines the circumstances surrounding child deaths to identify risks and opportunities for prevention. The findings reveal a troubling reality: Nearly one in three cases reviewed involves an unsafe sleep environment, and more than 80% of the unsafe sleep deaths examined were determined to be preventable.

These findings are more than statistics. They represent Oklahoma children and families whose lives have been forever changed.

During Safe Sleep Awareness Month, OCCY epidemiologist Vivian Sanchez and injury prevention coordinator Jasmyne Mackie joined Jon Trudgeon, director of communications for the Oklahoma Partnership for School Readiness (OPSR), on "Sunday Morning Magazine" with host Anthony Vigil.

The interview aired Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026, on Oklahoma City-area radio stations, highlighting what families should know about safe sleep, why recommendations have evolved and how simple precautions can help prevent tragedies.

What every generation should know:

Whether you're a new parent, grandparent, older sibling or trusted caregiver, the ABCs of safe sleep offer an easy way to remember three important practices:

A - Alone: Babies should sleep in their own space, free of pillows, blankets, stuffed animals and other loose items.

B - Back: Always place babies on their backs for naps and nighttime sleep.

C - Crib: Use a safety-approved crib, bassinet or play yard with a firm, flat mattress and fitted sheet.

Practices once considered normal, such as placing babies on their stomachs or using loose blankets, are no longer recommended. Current research shows that a clear sleep space and placing babies on their backs can reduce sleep-related risks.

The conversation also addressed common questions about bed-sharing, keeping babies warm during colder months and using products such as swings and loungers for sleep.

A shared commitment to safer sleep

Families face different challenges, and safe sleep education provides support, not blame.

"We're not here to talk about what parents are doing right or wrong," Trudgeon said during the interview. "We're here to talk about what parents all want, and that's the safety of their children."

Through its public awareness campaign, OPSR connects families and caregivers with practical safe sleep information and educational resources at www.SafeSleepOK.com.

Keeping the conversation going

The Oct. 25, 2026 episode of "Sunday Morning Magazine" aired on Cumulus Media's 98.9 KYIS, 100.5 KATT, 98.1 WWLS, and ALICE 104.9 radio stations, highlighting preventable infant deaths and the importance of consistent safe sleep practices.

Although Safe Sleep Awareness Month provides an opportunity to highlight these concerns, the recommendations apply year-round. Parents, grandparents and anyone caring for an infant can help reduce risks by following the ABCs of safe sleep for every nap and every night.

Learn more about the ABCs of safe sleep and find resources for Oklahoma families at www.SafeSleepOK.com.

Pictured (left to right): Anthony Vigil, host of Sunday Morning Magazine; Jon Trudgeon, director of Communications at the Oklahoma Partnership for School Readiness; Jasmyne Mackie, injury prevention coordinator; and Vivian Sanchez, epidemiologist at OCCY.

Pictured (left to right): Vivian Sanchez, epidemiologist at OCCY; Jasmyne Mackie, injury prevention coordinator at OCCY;  Jon Trudgeon, director of Communications at the Oklahoma Partnership for School Readiness; and Anthony Vigil, host of Sunday Morning Magazine.