Families in Cornwall are being urged to follow some basic tips to keep babies safe while sleeping.
The message comes as part of Safer Sleep Week this week, which is led nationally by the Lullaby Trust charity.
It is hoped that advice around creating a safer sleep space will reduce the number of babies that die due to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Nationally, around 200 babies die suddenly and unexpectedly every year but many of these deaths may have been prevented by following evidence-based, safer sleep advice.
In Cornwall, since 2024 eight babies have died where unsafe sleeping environments have been a factor.
Here is the Lullaby Trust’s six key pieces of advice for safer sleep:
- Lie your baby on their back.
- Keep their cot clear.
- Use a firm, flat, waterproof mattress.
- Keep baby smoke-free.
- Avoid your baby getting too hot.
- Sleep your baby in the same room as you for at least the first six months.
Cllr Hilary Frank, Cabinet Member for Children, Schools and Families at Cornwall Council, said:
“Thankfully SIDS is now very rare, but it is still causing devastation for dozens of families nationwide every year. Following safer sleep advice can significantly reduce the chances of SIDS so I would urge anyone looking after a baby to read those six bits of advice from the Lullaby Trust. It might save your little one’s life.”
Cllr Thalia Marrington, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Public Health, said:
“Promoting safer sleep advice is everyone’s business - by talking to families, and supporting them to understand how to avoid the specific risks, we can help to reduce the number of babies dying.
“Talk to your midwife or health visitor if you have questions or concerns, or text Chat Health Parent Line 0-5 on 07312 263 423. You can also find more information about safer sleep by visiting the Safer Sleep page on the Cornwall Council website."