Local Health Officials want to remind you and your family of the importance of safe sleep for your baby during SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) awareness month. Sleep related deaths are the leading cause of death for babies 1-12 months of age. Babies who are 2 to 4 months of age are at the highest risk for these sleep related deaths. Since 2010 in north central Wisconsin, seven babies have died from a sleep related death; however, none in Lincoln County.
Parents are often bombarded with information about the care of their new baby. From feeding to growth and development, there are so many do’s and don’ts that it can be overwhelming. The same is true for safe sleep, but there is an easy way to remember.
According to Sue Kuber, Public Health Nurse from Lincoln County Health Department, “Education is the key to keeping babies safe. It’s very important to follow the ABC’s of safe sleep for your baby every time they go to sleep.” says Kuber. Tell everyone who will be caring for your baby about the ABCs: A = Alone; B = Back is Best; and C = In an uncluttered Crib.”
The Lincoln County Health Department also recommends:
DO:
•Keep your baby’s sleep area close to but separate from where others sleep.
•Put your baby to sleep on his or her back in a crib or pack ‘n play at every nap and every night.
•Remove everything from your baby’s crib including bumpers, comforters, quilts, sheepskins, stuffed animals, wedges and pillows.
•Dress your baby in light sleep clothing and keep the room at a temperature that is comfortable for an adult.
DON’T:
•Allow your baby to sleep alone or with others on a bed, recliner, couch, chair or other soft bedding.
•Have anything in your baby’s crib but a fitted crib sheet and your baby.
•Let anyone smoke around your baby including at home or in the car.
Lincoln County Health Department is a partner with Cribs for Kids®, a national safe sleep program. The health department provides education on safe sleep for babies and can provide a Graco Pack ‘n Play to qualifying families who don’t have a safe place for their baby to sleep. For more information about Lincoln County Health Department’s Cribs for Kids program or to donate money to provide a crib for a family in need, contact Sue Kuber, RN at 715-539-1369, at [email protected]. For more information friend us on Face Book or visit us at http://lincolncountyhealthdepartment.com.