SAFE SLEEP: How Can I Make Sure That My Baby Sleeps Safe?

There are plenty of ways to be sure that your baby sleeps safe. Be sure to follow these steps to make sure your baby is at his or her full safe sleep potential!

1. Babies should always sleep alone in a safe crib-Babies need a separate space to sleep safely. Keep your baby close by placing his or her crib/bassinet/pack n play next to your bed or in a nearby room – Share a Room, but not a Bed. Giving your baby separate space decreases the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)  by as much as 50%.
2. Babies should always sleep on their backs, for every sleep-Research has shown that stomach sleeping greatly increases the risk of SIDS and other sleep-related causes of infant death.  Babies who sleep on their backs get more oxygen and are far less likely to suffocate.
3. Nothing in the crib with your baby– Use your decorating talents in the baby’s room – but not in the crib! All your baby needs to sleep is a firm sleep surface (a crib, bassinet, pack n play or portable crib that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission standards) covered by a fitted sheet. Bumper pads have not shown to decrease the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and are not recommended. Pillows, quilts, comforters, stuffed animals, and toys are great for when your baby is awake and supervised – but when she’s sleeping, remember that less is more.
4. Smoke Free Environment-It is important to avoid all smoke exposure while pregnant and after your baby is born. Talk to your family about creating a smoke-free environment for wherever you and your baby spend time – in your home or car and the homes or cars of family members and friends. Don’t be afraid to ask someone who smokes to change their clothes before holding your baby. Babies who are exposed to secondhand smoke are two to three times more likely to die from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep related deaths.

 

For more tips and information about Safe Sleep and Infant Safety, visit www.SafeSleepDE.com, follow us on Twitter @DEThrives or check us out on Facebook www.facebook.com/DEThrives.