Suffocation is the leading cause of death for babies 1-12 months of age. At least 1700 babies die from suffocation each year in the US. Several risks for suffocation during sleep may seem innocent or even nurturing. Well-meaning parents may not realize the dangers of co-sleeping with their babies in their own beds, putting the baby to rest in a bed with other children, or giving the baby a cuddly blanket or pretty pillow. However, during the night, linens, blankets and even the arm of a loving sibling or parent may rest over the baby's face. Babies react differently from older children; they can stop breathing entirely.
To avoid infant suffocation, parents should never put their babies to sleep on, under or with soft, fluffy products such as pillows, comforters or sheepskins. Babies should not be put to bed on their tummies or placed to sleep in beds or on sofas with older children or adults. Instead, babies should sleep on their backs, in their own crib with a well-fitting mattress and without blankets, pillows and soft toys.Parents must let sitters, grandparents and other caretakers know this.
Other helpful, healthful hints to reduce the risk of infant death include avoiding second hand smoke and keeping plastic bags and curtain cords away from children.
Source: Injury Free Coalition for Kids of Miami. Data from the Centers for Disease Control, Wisqars.
