This news item expired on Sunday, December 4, 2016 so the information below could be outdated or incorrect.
We know parents want what’s best for their children, and they want peace of mind that they’re making the right choices. Worries can creep up all the time for new parents, one of which is making sure they’re children are safe when they go to sleep at night. In North Carolina, 43 infants died from sleep related causes, and we’re not immune to those statistics here in Buncombe County. Unsafe sleeping conditions can lead to suffocation from sleeping in an adult bed, on a couch, or in a crib filled with blankets, pillows, or toys.
Fortunately we know more than we did in the past about what it takes to keep babies safe while they’re sleeping. We strongly urge anyone who is around a baby under one year of age to follow these simple steps to keep your baby sleeping safely:
A - Alone, but within arms reach – Have the baby share your room, not your bed. Your baby should not sleep in an adult bed, on a couch, or on a chair alone, with you, or with anyone else. This can cause suffocation by you or the blankets, pillows, and cushions. Or the baby can call on the floor.
B - Back – Always place babies on their backs for every sleep.
C - Crib with only a fitted sheet – NO bumpers, stuffed animals, or loose blankets. Use a firm sleep surface, such as a mattress, covered by a fitted sheet.
It’s hard taking care of a newborn, but you can rest easier when you know that you have taken these steps to keep your baby safe while they sleep. Tell your friends, family, and childcare providers about safe sleep. Don’t risk it.
Remember: Alone. Back. Crib. Every baby. Every sleep.
For more information, visit buncombecounty.org/health