Safe sleeping advice for parents this winter
As the temperature decreases over the next few months, parents are encouraged to refresh their knowledge around safe sleeping in winter.
Parents can find out more about safe sleeping in the The Lullaby Trust ‘safer sleep in winter’ guide
NHS South Yorkshire Integrated Care Board suggest that if you are unable to heat the whole house, try heating the main rooms where your baby will be in, with a temperature around 16-20 Degrees Celsius.
Always follow the advice on baby sleeping bags with regards to the weight or age the baby should be to use one.
The safest place for a baby to sleep is in their own clear, flat, separate sleep space, such as a cot or Moses’ basket in the same room as you.
Further advice for parents and families with young children at home including:
- No hats on inside
- Do not put the cot directly in front of the radiator, heater or fire
- Skin to skin is not just for hospital but is strongly encouraged to be implemented at home too
- In the early days of a baby’s life, hands and feet can feel cold to touch but the baby could be the correct temperature. Get used to checking the baby’s chest and back of their neck and compare this to your own chest and neck temperature
- Blankets should be no higher than the collarbone, and should be tucked in around the baby to ensure warm air is trapped in.
If you have any concerns, talk to your health visitor, midwife or GP.