The Bolton News Backs Sleep Safe Programme To Avoid Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

4th July 2011

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Midwives and health workers in Bolton are being trained to pass on important messages to parents to help to keep hundreds of Bolton babies safe.

The Sleep Safe campaign aims to prevent as many unexpected baby deaths in Bolton as possible.

The Sleep Safe campaign, which is being supported by The Bolton News, has been welcomed by young mums, as well as health workers and council and health chiefs

The Sleep Safe campaign, which is backed by The Bolton News, has been launched because Bolton’s rate of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is more than three times higher than the national average, with 1.4 unexplained baby deaths per 1,000 live births, compared to 0.4 nationally.

How can you help your baby sleep safely?

Do...

Place your baby to sleep in a cot, crip or moses basket on a clean, firm mattress
Place your baby on their back with their feet at the end of the cot 'feet to foot'
Remove your baby's outdoor clothing when they are in the house
Keep the room temperature between 16-20 degrees when your baby is sleeping
Keep the house smoke free
Make sure anyone caring for your baby knows the do's and dont's of safe sleeping.

Dont...

Sleep with your baby on a chair or sofa
Use duvets, quilts, cot bumbers, pillows or cot drapes in your baby's cot
put your baby to sleep in a car seat or pushchair
allow pets into your baby's bedroom.

For more information about Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) speak to your midwife or health visitor or visit http://www.bolton.nhs.uk/your-pct/news/safesleeping.asp

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