October is Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Awareness Month

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the leading cause of death in infants who are one month to one year old. Most SIDS deaths occur between two to four month of age. The cause remains unknown, even after years of research. However, there are steps you can take to reduce your baby's risk of SIDS. The most important step is to place the baby on his or her back to sleep!

In order to reduce the possibility of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, bed sharing is not recommended. Use a firm mattress in a safe crib, and use tight-fitting bottom sheet. Do not use loose bedding, fluffy blankets, pillows or stuffed toys near the baby's sleeping area, and don't let your baby get too warm during sleep. Breastfeed your baby, and do not expose your baby to smoke. Use infant sleepers, rather than blankets. And, don't use couches, beanbags or waterbeds for sleeping. Also, talk with grandparents, childcare providers and babysitters about safe sleeping for your baby.

If you would like additional information on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, or if you would like to participate in Building Blocks for Babies, a parent education and support program, contact the Jenkins County Family Enrichment Center at 982-8004.