There is no advice that guarantees the prevention of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) or Sudden Unexplained Death in Children (SUDC) but parents should be informed that, by following the safer sleep advice, it is possible to significantly lower the chance of this tragedy occurring.
It is essential that all professionals in touch with parents and visiting the family home make sure that the messages are understood by them, and do not assume that someone else has already offered leaflets or other materials.
Safer Sleep for Baby focuses on six easy to follow steps which you can follow any time you put your baby down to sleep.
Step 1 - Keep baby away from smoke, before and after birth. If either you or your partner smokes, never share a bed with your baby.
Step 2 - Put baby in a cot, crib or Moses basket to sleep. Never fall asleep with baby on a sofa or chair; this can increase the risk of death by 50%.
Step 3 -Never fall asleep with baby after drinking alcohol or taking drugs, including medications that may make you drowsy.
Step 4 - Put baby to sleep on their back with their feet to the foot of the cot.
Step 5 - Keep baby's head and face uncovered and make sure they don't get too hot. The room they sleep in should be between 16-20 degrees celsius.
Step 6 - Breastfeed your baby. Support is available if you need it.
Further information on Safer Sleeping
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