What is ‘Sudden Death Syndrome’ that affects millions of babies worldwide?

A charity, The Lullaby Trust, recently warned parents not to put their babies at risk of suffocation or sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), saying that allowing a child to sleep anywhere but on a flat surface increases their chances for the murderous situation.

The charity carried out a survey of 1,000 parents of babies under the age of one and found that 70% let their baby sleep in a bassinet, 67% in a cot and 61% in a bean bag. Eight percent of parents left their baby on these items to sleep through the night.

“Babies are safest sleeping on their backs on a clean, flat, stable sleeping surface such as a cot or Moses basket, said chief executive of The Lullaby Trust Jenny Ward.

“Not only does this help reduce the risk of SIDS, but it also helps keep the baby’s airway open and clear.”

The trust recommends putting a baby to sleep on their back and making sure their face is clean, without loose bedding or soft sides.

Products such as swings and bouncers are useful while the baby is awake and supervised, Ms Ward said. He added: “We know that babies can and do sleep in places that are not designed for sleeping.”

“Many parents find products like bassinets and bassinets useful when their baby is awake and supervised, but not suitable for putting babies to sleep.”

According to the Lullaby Trust, SIDS claims the lives of around three babies a week each year. The majority (89 percent) of deaths occur in the first six months of a baby’s life.

Mrs Ward added: “All parents need to know how to protect their baby’s airways, especially when they are sleeping.

“If a baby falls asleep on an object that keeps them propped up in a sitting position, such as a bassinet or rocker, it’s best to move them to a clean, firm, flat surface to keep their airway open.

“Even if a baby is awake, it’s important to make sure their head is not tilted forward and their nose and mouth are not covered to keep their airway clear and protect their breathing.”

The charity’s warning coincides with Safe Sleep Week, which runs from March 11 to 17.