Safer Sleep for Baby

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the sudden and unexplained death of a baby where no cause is found.  While SIDS is rare, it can still happen and there are steps parents can take to help reduce the chance of this tragedy occurring.

‘Safer Sleep for Baby’ is based around six simple steps, that will help parents and carers keep their baby safe:

1. Keep baby away from smoke, before and after birth.
2. Put baby in a cot, crib or Moses basket to sleep - never fall asleep with them on a sofa or chair.
3. Never fall asleep with baby after drinking or taking drugs/medication.
4. Put baby to sleep on their back with their feet to the foot of the cot.
5. Keep baby’s head and face uncovered and make sure they don’t get too hot.
6. Breastfeed your baby - support is available if you need it.

Safer sleep messages are also available from midwives, health visitors and children’s centre staff in a variety of forms such as cot cards, room thermometers, bookmarks, postcards and posters.

Multi-Agency Safe Sleep Pathway Guidance (March 2017)

More information is available online at https://www.lullabytrust.org.uk/safer-sleep-week 

Poster - Safe Sleep (6 steps to safer sleep for baby)