ABC's of Safe Sleep For Your Lil One!

Every year in the United States, more than 4,500 babies die suddenly and unexpectedly. Experts agree that more than 50 percent of these deaths may have been prevented if the baby had been placed to sleep in a safe environment. With widespread awareness of the importance of safe sleep practices in caring for babies, we could literally save thousands of precious lives each year.

The safest place for your baby to sleep, for at least the first six months, is alone, on his or her back, in a safe crib placed near your bed. Breastfeeding and bonding are very important to your baby’s health. It is okay to nurse your baby in bed, but when it’s time to go to sleep, place your baby alongside your bed in his or her own separate space to protect against SIDS and accidents during sleep.

Remember the ABC's to Safe Sleep!

* Always place your baby on his or her back for sleep.

* Your baby should sleep on a firm mattress covered with only a tight-fitting crib sheet.

* Do NOT use side positioners. They can cause suffocation in infants.

* Remove all soft and loose bedding and other items from your baby’s sleep area (pillows, comforters, quilts, stuffed animals, etc.)

* Consider using a wearable blanket or other type of sleeper instead of loose blankets to keep your baby warm and safe.

* Make sure your baby has a safe place to sleep when visiting or traveling.


The information in this article was gathered from First Candle. A organization helping Babies Survive & Thrive.