Injury Prevention

Injuries and violence affect everyone, regardless of age, race, economic status or geographic location. In fact, injuries are the number one killer of Americans, Coloradoans and those living in Jefferson County between the ages of 1 and 44. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) [external link], people in this age group are more likely to die from an injury-such as a motor vehicle crash, fall or other injury-than from any other cause, including cancer, HIV or the flu.

Injury Prevention Program

Jefferson County Public Health is partnering with hospitals, childcare providers, high schools and senior groups to increase awareness and education and ultimately decrease injuries among infants, teenagers and older adults in the county. Please contact Sophie West at 303-275-7581 for more information on JCPH's injury prevention program. 

  1. Safe Sleep for Babies
  2. Teen Driving
  3. Older Adults

Reduce Sleep-Related Deaths in Infants

Healthy Pregnancy

Visit a doctor when you suspect you are pregnant and attend all check-ups. Doctors prevent and treat risks that would otherwise weaken your baby. Don’t smoke, drink alcohol or use illegal drugs.

Safe Sleep Surfaces

Only let babies sleep on firm surfaces designed specifically for sleep safety. Cribs, play yards and bassinets should have current approval of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Cover each mattress in one tight-fitted sheet. Bare is best! So get rid of bed accessories that can suffocate or over-heat infants, such as blankets, pillows, hats, blankets, toys and bumpers. Can’t find or afford a safe crib? Please call 303-914-6586 for help.

In Your Room, Not in Your Bed

Sleeping in bed or on a couch with your baby doubles the chances of a sleep-related death, but sleeping in the same room lessens the chances. To make soothing and night feedings convenient and safe, place a crib within arm’s reach of your bed. Stay awake during feeding and return your baby to her own bed when done.

Back to Sleep, Everywhere All the Time

Place babies to sleep on their backs every time they sleep. Babies cannot breathe as well when they sleep on their sides and stomachs. If your baby has a harder time falling asleep on her back, ask your doctor about alternate soothing methods. Discuss back-to-sleep requirements with every person watching your baby. Make sure they understand that back sleeping does not cause choking. Then make unannounced drop-ins to verify caregivers are placing your child to sleep safely.

No Smoking, Alcohol or Drugs

Babies exposed to smoke are more vulnerable to sleep-related death. So are babies whose parents drink alcohol or use illegal drugs. Avoid these substances around babies to stay alert and attentive to their needs.

Yes to Breast & Pacifiers

Breastfed infants arouse from dangerous situations better than formula-fed infants and develop fewer infections that may trigger sleep-related death. So, if you are able to breastfeed, it is recommended that you do so. Pacifier use at bedtime also protects your baby. Pacifiers do not need to be reinserted if they fall out of the baby’s mouth while sleeping. To eliminate the chance of entanglement, never clip or tie pacifiers to your baby’s clothing or body.

Resources