SIDS / SUID Support & Info

As a new parent, one of the most important decisions you will make is where your baby will sleep. The following information will help you keep your baby safe from suffocation, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and accidents during sleep.

Important Things to Know

The safest place for your baby to sleep is in a crib placed near your bed. Move your baby to a crib as soon as possible if he / she falls asleep in the car seat, bouncer or other baby gear. Make sure your baby has a safe place to sleep when visiting or traveling.

Your baby should:

  • Always be placed on his/her back to sleep.
  • Sleep on a firm mattress with only a tight-fitting crib sheet.
  • Wear a one-piece sleeper instead of blankets to keep warm.
  • Never sleep with bumper pads, wedges or positioners.

Bed sharing does not protect a baby against suffocation or SIDS. Bed sharing can be dangerous, especially for babies under three months of age. Falling asleep with your baby on a couch or armchair is very unsafe. It is also very unsafe for other adults, children or pets to share a sleep surface with your baby.

Avoid bed-sharing if:

  • You are very tired.
  • You smoked during pregnancy.
  • You or your partner smoke now.
  • You or your partner have taken drugs, alcohol or medications that make you sleepy.
  • You are feeding or supplementing with formula.
  • You have a very soft bed or a waterbed.
  • You have soft bedding or pillows near the baby.

Safe Sleep Resource

If you need assistance in creating a safer sleep area for your baby, please call Butte County Public Health Department at 800-339-2941 and ask to speak with a Public Health Nurse.