Every time you put your infant down for a nap or to sleep at night, remember the ABCs of safe sleep:
- Alone: Your baby should always sleep alone in their crib.
- Back: Always place your baby on their back to sleep until they are strong enough to roll over on their own.
- Crib: The crib should be empty of toys, blankets or any loose items while the baby sleeps.
October is recognized as Safe Sleep Awareness Month to focus on safe sleep practices that help reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), the unexplained death of a seemingly healthy baby, usually during sleep, before their first birthday. While the exact cause is unknown, research shows that following the ABCs of safe sleep significantly lowers the risk for SIDS. It is also important to keep the baby’s room cool enough to prevent them from overheating, which is another potential risk factor for SIDS. There is no need for a blanket. Light layers of clothing do the trick of keeping your baby warm while they sleep. Sleep sacks are another option for keeping your baby warm until they start rolling over on their own.
Signs your child may be too hot include:
- Sweating
- Damp hair
- Skin that is red or shows signs of rash
- Reddened cheeks
- Quickened breathing
- A chest that is noticeably hot
Also, check for loose buttons or pacifiers tied to the baby’s clothes to avoid potential choking or accidental strangulation.
And remember – bottles don’t belong in the crib. Babies who use a bottle while sleeping may develop tooth decay, so it’s better to finish their feeding before bedtime.
Learn more at Safe Sleeping Environment | Florida Department of Health.
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