Media Advisory

Capital Region Joins 'Babies Sleep Safest Alone' Campaign

RENSSELAER, NY (05/27/2008)(readMedia)-- WHO: NYS OCFS Commissioner Gladys Carrión, Albany County Executive Mike Breslin, Rensselaer County Executive Kathy Jimino, Schenectady Legislator Karen Johnson, and experts from St. Peter’s Hospital

WHAT: News Conference to announce “Babies Sleep Safest Alone” campaign

WHERE: Mercy Cares for Kids (Daycare Center across from St. Peter’s Hospital) 310 Manning Blvd., Albany

WHEN: Thursday, May 29, 2008 10:30 AM

WHY: Co-sleeping is risky. If an adult or child rolls over on a baby, the baby can be hurt or even suffocated. Sleeping with a child can be dangerous, especially if you drink, use drugs, are overweight, or sleep on a couch. To keep your baby close, put his crib or bassinet near your bed.

The Office of Children and Families estimates that co-sleeping is involved in approximately 20 percent of the child fatalities reported to the Statewide Central Register of Child Abuse and Maltreatment.

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For more information on the campaign, visit http://www.ocfs.state.ny.us/main/babiessleepsafestalone

DIRECTIONS TO NEWS CONFERENCE:

St. Peter's Hospital is located at the corner of South Manning Blvd. and New Scotland Ave. in Albany. Mercy Cares for Kids is located across S. Manning Blvd. from the hospital at 310 S. Manning Boulevard.

Take the second driveway on the right if coming from the intersection of S. Manning & New Scotland. Follow this driveway around toward the back of the building. Follow the "exit" signs to the parking area adjacent to the building. Security guards will assist with parking. Enter the building at the center of the rear of the building. The media will be escorted to the press conference area.