Creating a Safe Sleep Environment for Babies

The new year is a time for fresh starts, so what better time to make sure we are doing all we can to keep our baby safe! This is particularly important as we make our way through the winter months and colder weather. As you strive to keep baby warm day and night, remember to keep safety as your number one priority.

When you're bundling baby up during the colder months, here are some key steps to follow when putting baby down to rest:

• The best place for your baby to sleep is in his or her bassinet or crib placed close to your bed.
• Always place your baby to sleep on his or her back.
• Use a swaddle wrap or wearable blanket/sleep-sack instead of a typical blanket.
• Create a sleep safety zone by removing all soft, fluffy or loose bedding, blankets and toys from the crib. Never place additional padding under an infant.
• Use a crib or bassinet with a firm, TIGHT FITTING mattress.
• Educate relatives, babysitters, and other caregivers about these safety tips.

To learn more about safe sleep tips, visit marchofdimes.com and swaddleme.com and viewSummer Infant's Safe and Sound Sleep Guide: A Guide to Help Your Baby Sleep Safely. There you'll find tips and information on safe sleep habits and guidelines from Summer Infant. And while your baby warms your heart this winter, you'll both sleep better knowing that you put safety first.