Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (known as SIDS) is the unexplained and sudden death of babies under the age of 1.
SIDS is sometimes called "crib death" or "cot death" because it is associated with the time when the baby is sleeping. Cribs themselves don't cause SIDS, but the baby's sleep environment can influence sleep-related causes of death.
SIDS is the leading cause of death among babies between 1 month and 1 year of age.
Risk factors for SIDS include:
· Sleeping in adult beds, especially with more than one bed occupant
· If the baby sleeps on their stomach
· Sleeping on soft or loose bedding
· Cigarette smoke exposure
· Loose items, toys and blankets inside of crib
The Raise Foundation distributes Safe to Sleep Public Education materials in-person and digitally year-round. Materials include brochures and tip sheets.
Tips for reducing SIDS by practicing Safe to Sleep techniques include:
· Placing babies on their back for bedtime
· Only using firm, safety-approved crib mattresses
· Sharing a room with the baby, but not the same bed
· Removing all additional objects in the crib or sleeping area including plushes, toys and blankets
US Department of Health and Human Services
National Institute of Health
Safe to Sleep Campaign
American Academy of Pediatrics—Orange County Chapter
