Safe Sleep

Approximately 3,500 infants die annually in the United States from sleep-related deaths, including sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS); ill-defined deaths; and accidental suffocation and strangulation. The number of infant deaths initially decreased in the 1990s after a national safe sleep campaign, but has plateaued in recent years.

American Academy Pediatricians recommendations on creating a safe sleep environment include:

• Place the baby on his or her back on a firm sleep surface such as a crib or bassinet with a tight-fitting sheet.
• Avoid use of soft bedding, including crib bumpers, blankets, pillows and soft toys. The crib should be bare.
• Share a bedroom with parents, but not the same sleeping surface, preferably until the baby turns 1 but at least for the first six months. Room-sharing decreases the risk of SIDS by as much as 50 percent.
• Avoid baby's exposure to smoke, alcohol and illicit drugs.

Skin-to-skin care is recommended, regardless of feeding or delivery method, immediately following birth for at least an hour as soon as the mother is medically stable and awake, according to the report.

Breastfeeding is also recommended as adding protection against SIDS. After feeding, the AAP encourages parents to move the baby to his or her separate sleeping space, preferably a crib or bassinet in the parents' bedroom.

"A" is for Alone: Always let the baby sleep alone, never in a bed with another person where the baby could be smothered.

"B" is for on the baby's Back: An infant should be placed to sleep on his or her back, not on his or her side or stomach.

"C" is for Crib: Always put your child to sleep in a crib with only a firm mattress and tight-fitting sheet.

For more information contact Safe Kids Worldwide for keeping your child safe.