SAFETY MESSAGES FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON

The pan-Lancashire Child Death Overview Panel (CDOP) is issuing safety messages to encourage parents and carers to "Think Twice Tonight" over the festive period and consider the dangers that can occur when caring for a child whilst under the influence of alcohol.

"Think Twice Tonight" is an extension of the well-established "Safer Sleep for Baby" campaign, and highlights the following key messages to parents and carers:

ü The safest place for baby to sleep is in their own cot, crib or moses basket. ü Babies should sleep in the same room as the adult who is caring for them, for every sleep, for at least the first 6 months of life ü Speak to your health visitor or midwife if you need support or more information. There are some circumstances in which bed sharing with your baby can be very dangerous… û If either you or your partner smokes, even if you do not smoke in the bedroom, NEVER share a bed with your baby. û If you are extremely tired, NEVER share a bed with your baby. û If your baby was born prematurely (37 weeks or less) or was born at a low weight (2.5kg or 5½ lbs or less) NEVER share a bed with your baby. û NEVER sleep on a sofa or armchair with your baby, this can increase the risk of death by 50%. û If either you or your partner has drunk alcohol or taken drugs, including medications that may make you drowsy, NEVER share a bed with your baby. Drinking alcohol/taking drugs before bed can make you fall into a deep sleep and become less responsive. A charge of criminal overlay applies when a child under the age of 3 is suffocated.

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