City of Racine
Safe Sleep Awareness Event
On April 16, 2026, City of Racine departments will wear their pajamas for a purpose. The City of Racine Public Health Department, the Parks, RecreationActivity done for enjoyment when one is not working., and Cultural Services Department, and the Racine Public Library will participate in the first-ever national PJs for Safe Sleep Day, a highly visible awareness initiative designed to spark conversations about infant safe sleep and share lifesaving information to help reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and prevent suffocation in sleep environments.
Sleep-related infant deaths remain the leading cause of death for babies under 12 months old in the United States with 10 infant deaths in the city of Racine attributed to an unsafe sleep environment since 2023. PJs for Safe Sleep Day creates a positive and approachable way to start meaningful conversations, turning something as simple as wearing pajamas into a collective moment of awareness to shine a light on safe sleep practices that protect babies and support caregivers.
New Community Campaign Featuring Local Moms and Babies
To further build community connection and visibility around safe sleep, the Public Health Department is launching a new campaign featuring Racine moms and their babies proudly wearing Safe Sleep T-shirts. The T-shirts highlight the ABCs of Safe Sleep, a simple, memorable tool for families: A-Alone, B-on their Back, C-in a Crib, S-Smokefree air.
Photos and stories from participating local families will be placed at the Racine Public Library, in Community Centers, and within Racine City Hall, reinforcing that safe sleep can be achievable when caregivers have the information and support they need.
Online Safe Sleep Training and Portable Crib Program
In 2025, the City of Racine Public Health Department provided thirty-nine safe sleep education sessions and portable cribs to pregnant individuals and primary caregivers of infants under one year old. To increase the reach of the program, the Public Health Department is launching a new online Safe Sleep Training. This accessible, self-paced training provides essential information on safe sleep practices based on the American Academy of Pediatrics and the National Institutes of Health guidelines. Participants who complete the training may be eligible to receive a low-cost portable crib and other safe sleep supplies, helping ensure every baby in Racine has a safe place to sleep.
For more information about safe sleep practices orto participate in the online training visit,www.cityofracinewi.gov/safe-sleep/.
A Community Approach to Protecting Racine’s Youngest Residents
The City of Racine Public Health Department is committed to reducing preventable infant deaths through education, community partnerships, and visibility campaigns that support caregivers in making safe choices. By combining data driven approaches, accessible training, and engaging community outreach, Racine aims to ensure that every baby has the safest possible start in life.
