Peoria, IL – Peoria County has witnessed a distressing surge in infant deaths related to unsafe sleeping environments, with five fatalities already occurring in 2024, a significant increase from the single incident reported in 2023.
The Peoria County Coroner’s Office is strongly advocating for strict adherence to safe sleep practices to reverse this alarming trend. They emphasize the critical “ABCs” of safe sleep, where infants should sleep Alone, on their Backs, and in a Crib devoid of loose items.
In an effort to support new parents, the coroner’s office is distributing free pack-n-plays, offering a safe and designated sleep space for infants. These portable cribs are provided alongside instructions and educational materials on how to set them up safely.
Parents and caregivers can contact the Peoria County Coroner’s Office at 309-669-2004 for more information on safe sleep guidelines or to request a pack-n-play. This campaign is part of a broader initiative to ensure the well-being of infants across the community.
