Safe sleeping warning for young families over Christmas

PARENTS and carers of young babies in Northern Ireland have been urged to follow safe sleeping advice over the Christmas period to reduce the risk of sudden infant death.

The Public Health Agency said that as normal routines and sleeping arrangements are disrupted by celebrations, the safest place for babies to sleep remains in their own cot or moses basket, in the same room as their parents/carers.

Emily Roberts, Designated Nurse for Safeguarding Children at the PHA, said: “It is really important to keep your baby’s sleep environment safe throughout the festive period when there may be a higher chance of parents and carers being more tired, and normal routines being disrupted.”

Sleeping on an armchair or sofa with a baby was described as “particularly risky,” and no one should be allowed to share a bed with a baby if they have been smoking, drinking alcohol or taken any drugs or prescription medication that could lead to heavier sleep.

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For those that do to share a bed with their baby, or if happens unplanned, the advice is;

• Place the baby on their back in a clear, flat sleep space.
• Keep all pillows and adult bedding away from the baby to avoid obstructing breathing and over-heating.
• Babies must not be left alone in an adult bed.
• Other hazards can include a baby becoming trapped, wedged, falling out of bed or trapped between the mattress and the wall.
• Other children or parents must not share a bed with a baby as it may lead to suffocation or overheating.

Ms Roberts added: “Remember, the safest place for your baby to sleep is in their own cot or moses basket in your room for the first six months.

“Always place your baby on their back to sleep, with feet touching the bottom of the cot. Also make sure that your baby does not get too hot as they are unable to regulate their own body temperature.

“Keep an eye on the temperature in the room and adjust bedding and sleepwear accordingly as there is a higher risk of sudden infant death in babies who are over-heated.”

She explained it was normal for baby’s hands and feet to feel slightly cooler than the rest of their body, and it was better to feel the back of their neck.

A room temperature of 16-20°C is advised, with safe bedding including a light bedding or a lightweight, well-fitting baby sleeping bag fitted with neck and armholes, and no hood.

“By following these steps as part of a sleep-time routine they’ll become second nature and help reduce the risk of sudden infant death,” Ms Roberts said.

“If you have any questions, no matter how small or trivial you might think they are, talk to your health visitor who can provide practical advice.”

Further information is available at www.pha.site/safersleepingadvice.