How to reduce the risk of Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID)
Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID) is the sudden and unexplained death of an infant under one year of age, usually during periods of sleep. It is the leading cause of death for infants between birth and 12 months of age.
Follow the ABC’s of Safe Sleep
A – Alone in a crib, bassinet or portable crib.
Your baby should not sleep with any adults or other children. Share your room, not your bed. Room-sharing lets you keep a close watch over your baby while preventing accidents that may happen in an adult bed. Keep babies sleep surface clutter free. Remove all blankets, bumpers, pillows and stuffed animals. Alone means just the baby in their crib, bassinet or portable crib.
B – Back to sleep every sleep.
Babies should always sleep on their back not their tummy or on their side. Allow your infant to experience tummy time while they are awake, and an adult can monitor them. This will help build strength in the neck and shoulders.
C – Crib, bassinet or portable crib.
Make sure your baby sleeps on a firm flat surface, such as on a safety-approved mattress covered with a fitted sheet. If your baby falls asleep on a bed, couch or car seat, place them in their crib, bassinet or portable crib to finish sleeping.
More Tips for Safe Sleep
- Do not allow your baby to become too hot. Dress your baby with the same amount of clothing as you would dress yourself.
- Consider offering a clean dry pacifier when putting your infant down to sleep.
- As always, do not allow anyone to smoke around your baby.
- Make sure others (childcare providers, relatives, friends) caring for the infant are aware of these tips.
