Creating a Safe Sleep Environment

Your baby should not sleep in a bed or on a couch or armchair with adults or other children, but they can sleep in the same room as you. If you bring your baby into bed with you to breastfeed, put them back in a separate sleep area, such as a bassinet, crib, cradle, or a bedside co-sleeper (infant bed that attaches to an adult bed) when finished.
The back sleep position is the safest, and every sleep time counts.
Never place your baby to sleep on pillows, quilts, sheepskins or other soft surfaces.
Don’t use pillows, blankets, quilts, sheepskins or pillow-like crib bumpers in your baby’s sleep area, and keep all objects away from your baby’s face.
Dress your baby in light sleep clothing, and keep the room at a temperature that is comfortable for an adult.
Don’t smoke before or after the birth of your baby, and don’t let others smoke around your baby.
Provide “Tummy Time” when your baby is awake and someone is watching; change the direction that your baby lies in the crib from one week to the next; and avoid too much time in car seats, carriers and bouncers.
Do not force the baby to take it. (If you are breastfeeding your baby, wait until your child is 1 month old or is used to breastfeeding before using a pacifier.)
Most of these products have not been tested for effectiveness or safety so it best to avoid them.
If you have questions about using monitors for other conditions talk to your health care provider.

Fast Facts on Safe Sleep

SIDS is the sudden unexplained death of a baby between one month and one year of age.
Most deaths related to SIDS happen when babies are between one month and four months of age.
Follow your health care provider’s guidance for your baby’s vaccines and regular check-ups.
Give your baby plenty of tummy time when they are awake and someone is watching them.
Breastfeeding your baby can reduce the risk of SIDS.
Don’t let baby get too hot during sleep. Watch for signs of overheating such as sweating or baby’s chest feeling hot to the touch. Keep baby’s face and head uncovered during sleep.