Ensuring Your Baby’s Safe Sleep

Sleep Position

• Place Babies on Their Backs:
  This is the single most important step in reducing the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).
  Unless otherwise advised by your caregiver.

• The Safe Sleeping Place:
  The safest place for your baby to sleep is in your bedroom, in a crib.
  Ensure the crib meets safety standards set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and ASTM.

Bedding & Blankets

• Avoid Covering the Baby’s Head with Blankets:
  Never cover your baby’s head to prevent overheating.

• Avoid Over-bundling:
  Do not bundle your baby excessively with clothes or blankets.

• Temperature Regulation:
  Keep the room at a comfortable temperature for a lightly clothed adult. Your baby should not feel hot to the touch or sweaty.

• Avoid Duvets, Sheepskins, or Pillows in the Crib:
  These items can increase the risk of suffocation.

• Safe Sleeping Surfaces:
  Do not place your baby to sleep on soft surfaces such as adult beds, soft mattresses, sofas, or cushions.
• Firm Mattress Requirement:
  A firm mattress is necessary, and there should be no gaps between the crib walls or the wall where your baby could get stuck.

Sleep Proximity

• Co-sleeping Risks:
  It is not safe to sleep with your baby. Doing so can be risky, especially if:
• You’ve been drinking.
• You’ve taken sleep medication.
• You’re overly tired.

Babies should also not sleep in bed with other children due to the risk of suffocation and the fact that older children may not recognize distress signals from a baby.

• Keep the Crib Low to the Ground:
  This minimizes the risk of injury if your baby falls.

• Avoid Quilts and Comforters:
  Use a thin, light blanket, tucked at the bottom and sides, no higher than the chest.

• Keep Toys Out of the Bed:
  Remove all toys and loose items from the crib.

Tummy Time

• Provide Plenty of Tummy Time While Awake:
  Tummy time is important for your baby’s muscle development and helps prevent flat spots on the back of the head.

General Safety Tips

• Never Sleep with Your Baby:
  Avoid sleeping with your baby at all times to reduce the risk of suffocation or accidents.