Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

SIDS is the sudden and unexplained death of a baby under 1 year old. More American Indian infants die from SIDS than infants born to other women in the United States. Reduce the risk for SIDS by taking these steps:

• Don't smoke, use drugs, or drink alcohol while you're pregnant.
• Place your baby on his/her back to sleep.
• Be sure your baby sleeps on a firm mattress.
• Remove soft, fluffy, loose blankets, pillows, stuffed toys, and other bedding from your baby's sleep area.
• Keep your baby at a temperature that feels comfortable to you. Babies should be kept warm, but not too warm.
• Don't let anyone smoke around your baby.
• Keep covers away from your baby's head and face during sleep.