HOULTON, Maine — Houlton Regional Hospital is in the process of becoming a “Safe Sleep Leader”. In August of 2015, the hospital implemented the use of safe sleep sacks to ensure the sleep safety of infants during a hospital stay.
“We are dedicated to educating the community on ways to make your babies sleep environment safe,” said Janet Vose, community relations spokesperson for HRH. “Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, or SIDS, is the leading cause of death among infants less than 1-year-old. “
Here are a few ways to help reduce the risk of SIDS and other sleep related causes of infant deaths
— Always put babies to sleep on their backs during every sleep time.
— Remove all soft bedding and toys from your baby’s sleep area. Use a wearable blanket, or sleep sack, instead of loose blankets is recommended.
— Breastfeed, if possible, but when finished, put your baby back to sleep in his or her separate safe sleep area near your bed. Use a crib that meets current safety standards with a firm mattress that fits snugly and is covered with only a tight fitted crib sheet.
— Do not smoke or allow others to smoke around your baby. For more information regarding SIDS and safe sleep practices, contact 521-2130.
