October is SIDS Awareness Month

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PREBLE COUNTY — Every week in Ohio three babies die in unsafe sleep environments. Ohio ranks 45th worst in the country for babies who die before their first birthday. October looks at SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) and what can be done to decrease these sudden infant deaths.

The SID Network, along with Ohio Department of Health and Preble County Public Health, will continue to spread the ABC’s of safe infant sleep message. The guidelines established by the American Academy of Pediatrics will help decrease the risk of SIDS while preventing accidental sleep related infant deaths.

Infant Safe sleep ABC’s includes the following:

• The safest place for your baby to sleep is Alone, on their Back, and in their own Crib.

• Avoid letting your baby get too hot. Dress your baby in sleep clothing such as a sleep sack, and do not use a blanket.

• Get your baby’s immunizations on time.

• Breastfeeding helps reduce the risk of SIDS.

• Don’t smoke or let anyone else smoke around your baby.

• Give your baby supervised, awake tummy time.

• Consider using a pacifier at nap time and bed time.

• Obtain regular prenatal care before baby is born.

• Do not use alcohol or drugs while pregnant or after your baby is born.

• Make sure everyone taking care of your baby knows to place them on their back, alone, and in their crib to sleep.

If you do not have a safe place for your baby to sleep, call PCPH at 937-683-4104 and ask about the Cribs for Kids Program.

To keep up with other public health–related issues make sure to check out Preble County Public Health online at www.preblecountyhealth.org, through Facebook at www.facebook.com/PrebleCoHealth and on Twitter at @PrebleCoHealth! We are also available Monday through Friday between the hours of 8 a.m.-4 p.m., by phone at 937-472-0087.

By Anita Stoner

For The Register-Herald

Reach Anita Stoner, Public Health Public Information Officer, at 937-472-0087.

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