Government says 20 infant deaths over five years related to unsafe sleep
A provincial report released on Monday, July 13, says 36 per cent of all deaths of children under the age of two in New Brunswick were associated with unsafe sleeping practices.
The information was gathered by the province’s Child Death Review Committee, which noted that unsafe sleep practices were the direct cause or a contributing factor in 20 child deaths between Jaun 1, 2020, and Sept. 11, 2025.
“Every child death is a tragedy, and this report identifies opportunities to prevent future losses,” said Public Safety Minister Robert Gauvin.
https://www.gnb.ca/content/dam/GNB3/org/jps-jsp/doc/unsafe-sleeping-practices.pdf
“These findings reinforce the importance of safe sleep practices and the need for continued public awareness, education and collaboration across government, health-care providers and community partners.”
In 16 of the 20 cases, unsafe sleep practices were directly linked to the cause of death.
The report listed six recommendations, including strengthening safe sleep education and policy across child welfare training, hospital discharge practices, and public health messaging, as well as publicly releasing the report.
Unsafe sleep practices include putting infants to sleep on their side or stomach; bed-sharing; using unsafe sleep surfaces, such as adult beds or couches; and the presence of soft bedding, toys or other items in a baby’s sleep environment.
The review noted the growing influence of social media narratives that portray these practices – particularly sharing a bed or any sleep surface – as safe alternatives. Federal health authorities recommend that infants sleep alone, on their backs, in a crib, cradle, or bassinet, free of blankets, pillows, and toys.
The Child Death Review Committee is an independent advisory body that conducts thorough reviews of child deaths to identify opportunities for system improvements and help prevent future tragedies.
