Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is one of the leading causes of death in Canada for babies between 2 – 4 months old. Every week, 3 babies die of SIDS.

 

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is also known as "crib death" which means the death of an apparently normal and healthy baby that occurs unexpectedly and with no cause. The Canadian Foundation for the Study of Infant Deaths (2001) indicated that more than 90% of SIDS cases happen in babies less than 6 months of age.

 

Even though we don't know what causes SIDS, there are many ways to reduce the risks.

 

What you can do to reduce the risks:

 

·         Place your baby on their back to sleep

·         Care for your baby in a smoke–free environment

·         When you put clothing or blankets on your baby, make sure your baby is not too hot

·         Do not put your baby crib beside a heater or in direct sunlight

·         Put your baby on a flat, firm mattress to sleep

·         Do not use bumper pads, soft toys or comforters in your baby's crib

·         Breastfeed your baby

 

For more information, visit Programs and Resources.

 

 

Parenting can be a challenge. We can help.

 

For more information or to speak with a Public Health Nurse, please contact

York Region Health Connection at 1-800-361-5653
TTY 1-866-252-9933

 

---

Child & Family Health Home | Connecting With Your Child | Dads Make a Difference | Helping Your Child Grow and Develop | Understanding and Guiding Behaviour | Programs and Resources