VIDEO: Six West Michigan emergency response agencies are now certified in safe sleep practices.
In 2022, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) launched a program to train emergency responders on safe sleep practices. Those agencies often interact with families and remove hazards from the environment for the sleeping child.
The Grand Rapids Fire Department was the first department to receive the certification back in July 2022. Four more agencies have since become certified in Kent County, working with the Kent County Health Department's Infant Safe Sleep Program.
Caledonia Fire Department, Plainfield Fire Department, Wyoming Fire Department, Alpine Township Fire Department and Coopersville/Polkton Fire Department have also been certified.