SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) is the sudden, unexplained death of an infant younger than one year of age. It is the leading cause of death in children between one month and one year of age.
Did you know?
- More than 90% of all SIDS deaths occur before babies reach 6 months of age.
- Risks of SIDS is 3 times higher in babies born with low birth weight.
- Accidental suffocation is the leading cause of infant injury deaths.
- An Orange County baby dies while sleeping in an adult bed or sharing a bed with another person nearly every other month.
What can you do?
- Always place a baby on his or her back to sleep for naps and at night.
- Place your baby to sleep on a firm sleep surface, covered by a fitted sheet.
- Keep soft objects, loose bedding, or any objects that could increase the risk of entrapment, suffocation, or strangulation out of the crib.
- Place your baby to sleep in the same room where you sleep but not the same bed. If you bring baby into your bed to breastfeed, make sure to put him or her back into a separate sleep area, such as a safe crib, bassinet, or portable play area when you are finished.
- Breastfeed as much and for as long as you can. This helps reduce the risk of SIDS.
- Keep your baby away from smokers and places where people smoke.
- Do not let your baby get too hot. Dress your baby light and keep the room temperature comfortable for an adult.
- Offer a pacifier (with nothing attached) at nap time and bedtime.
Should you need more information about SIDS or safe sleep resources, contact Orange County SIDS Coordinator, Marcia Salomon at (714) 834-8218 or MCAH Coordinator, Pauline Bui at (714) 567-6234.
