SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) has become a major topic, as it is the leading cause of death for infants between 1 and 12 months (over 2,000 babies in the U.S., each year). It’s a sad reality that becomes the nightmare of any parent who has to mourn the loss of their child from SIDS. More and more research is being done in this area and now one of the leading risk factor is overheating. As parents and caregivers, we are inclined to crank up the heat, place thick/plush blankets, to keep our babies warm. However, now research is saying that infants who are overdressed and or covered in heavy blankets are at a higher risk for SIDS.
Recently, the CJ Foundation for SIDS launched its Sleep in Safety, Grow in Style (SSGS) campaign to educate parents in creating safe sleeping environments for their babies. Some of the ways that we can do this is:
- Consider the use of fans to increases ventilation
- Room temperature should be comfortable for a lightly-clothed adult, approximately 61-67 degree Fahrenheit
- Cribs should be totally free of all loose blankets, stuffed animals and crib bumpers
- Lay baby to sleep in an improved crib, on a firm mattress; do not let the baby sleep on soft things, like a couch, pillow, sheepskin, foam pad or waterbed
- No smoking when pregnant or near baby
- If possible, breastfeed baby
- Offer a pacifier at bedtime
- Co-sleeping should be in the same room but not the same bed or other sleep surface as parents
I would suggest visiting their site and really taking the time to educate yourself because it can be the difference between life and death. Our children are the most precious beings that really rely on us to take care of them. Spread the word to your friends and family, so that we can educate everyone, and not become that statistic.
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