SAFE SLEEP IS HARD. YOUR BABY IS WORTH IT.
It's scary to think about, but approximately 3,500 infants in the United States die annually from sleep-related deaths. That is why it is so important to know the ABCs of safe sleep for infants!
Make sure your baby always sleeps Alone on his or her Back in a safety-approved Crib. By following these simple steps, you can help reduce your baby's risk of a sleep-related death.
PRACTICE YOUR ABCS:
A-ALONE
Share a room with your baby, NEVER a bed. For every sleep, make sure baby is in a separate, safe sleep space without any pillows, blankets, bumper pads, nursing pillows, or toys in the space. Dress baby in layers or use a sleep sack instead of blankets to keep baby warm and safe. Every baby needs their own individual sleep space, even twins or other multiples!
B-BACK
Always place your baby flat on their back on a firm non-inclined surface for every sleep. Never place baby on his or her side or tummy, these positions are NOT safe.
C-CRIB
Falling asleep with your baby in a bed, on a couch, chair, or other adult sleep surface is dangerous. That is why your baby should always sleep in a space that meets current safety standards. This may include a crib, pack n play, or bassinet. Never modify these spaces and be sure to follow the user guideline recommendations.
Never put baby to sleep on adult beds, couches, air mattresses, waterbeds, pillows, or in sitting devices such as swings, bouncy chairs, infant carriers, slings or car seats.
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WHEN YOUR BABY SLEEPS SAFELY, YOU CAN SLEEP SOUNDLY.
Take safe sleep seriously. Your baby’s life can depend on it.
To help keep baby healthy, here are additional recommendations for ALL caregivers:
- If possible, breastfeed baby for at least the first six months of life.
- Provide a smoke free environment for baby before AND after birth.
- After breastfeeding is established, consider offering a pacifier at nap-time and bedtime.
- Avoid overheating and covering baby's head. Keep the temperature in baby's room comfortable for a lightly clothed adult.
- Infants should be immunized according to the guidance of the American Academy of Pediatrics and Center for Disease Control.
- Pregnant women should obtain regular prenatal care. Attending all doctor and well child appointments are important for baby's development.
- Avoid the use of alcohol or drugs while pregnant and while caring for baby.
- The use of commercial devices, such as wedges, positioners, or monitors, that are inconsistent with safe sleep recommendations should be avoided.
- Give your baby lots of tummy time when baby is awake and being watched. Tummy time helps to develop baby's muscles and helps prevent flat spots on the back of baby's head.
- Share these recommendations with EVERYONE that may care for your baby.
