Learn the facts before putting your child to sleep

Each year, nearly 1,000 children die due to choking or suffocation. Experts warn against co-sleeping. Share a room with your baby, not the bed, recliner, or sofa.

While fatalities from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) have declined dramatically since the Nineties, deaths from other sleep-related causes including suffocation, entrapment, and asphyxia have increased. Don't add to the numbers: Get the facts today.

Experts say if you suspect your baby has stopped breathing, touch or rouse the infant a bit to see if it responds. If the baby does not breathe, it may be experiencing a disorder called apnea and you should call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number right away.

Never Forget!

Always place babies on their backs when putting them to sleep.

Don't put your child at risk. Sleep in the same room with your baby but not in the same bed.

Remember A-B-C for Safe Infant Sleep

A -lone - Do Not Share a Bed

B -ack - Place Infants to Sleep on Their Backs, Not Their Stomachs or Side

 

C -rib - Use A Safety Approved Sleep Place Such as a Crib or Bassinette

 

Safe Sleep Tips

Studies have shown that babies are less likely to choke during the night if able to spit up when sleeping on their back

Babies are more likely to wake up during danger situations if sleeping on their backs

Sing, hum, or play soft music to make it easier for your baby to fall asleep on their backs

Once babies start rolling over and choosing their own sleep position, it is important that there are no blankets, bumpers or soft toys in the sleep area to get near their face

 

Top Ten Recommendations

1. Place your baby on their back - every sleep, every time

2. Use a firm sleep surface - a firm mattress covered by a tightly fitted sheet

3. Share a room with your baby, not the bed, recliner, or sofa

4. Your baby's bed should be a bed, bassinette, or other safe place

5. Keep soft objects (including toys, pillows, quilts, and bumper pads) out of your baby's bed

6. Keep your baby away from those who are smoking

7. Pacifiers for sleep are acceptable but not attached to your baby's clothes

8. Avoid overheating and overbundling your baby

9. Avoid wedges, positioners, and all other commercial sleep safety devices

10. It is ok for your baby to spend time on their tummy while awake. Encourage tummy time only when supervised

 

Other Risk Factors Include:

Poor or Late Prenatal Care

Sleeping in Car Seats, Strollers or Swings

Premature Birth