A concern for new parents is whether their child is safe from injuries while they sleep. By following these steps, you can feel more secure knowing your child is asleep safe and sound. You will get a better sense of rest as well!

If the child is under a year old, the main concerns are SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome), suffocation, and strangulation.

These preventive tips are recommended:

1. Make sure the crib is secure and meets all current regulations.
Do not use a crib with the following problems:
•missing or broken hardware and slats more than 2 3/8" apart
•cutout designs in the headboard or footboard
•corner posts over 1/16" high
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, only cribs made after 1991 are likely to meet all current safety standards. To ensure you are buying the safest crib for your baby, buy a new one with a safety certification seal. If you wish to use an heirloom crib, check Federal regulations for the guidelines regarding crib safety standards.

2.Place the baby to sleep on their back.
Babies who sleep on their backs have a much lower risk of dying from SIDS and suffocation.

3.Be cautious of bedding in the crib, a baby can suffocate from some soft bedding like sheepskin blankets. Make sure the mattress is a firm and secure fit.

4.Babies can strangle themselves from ordinary objects; never hang anything on or above a crib with string longer than 7 inches. Make sure to clip pacifiers to clothing with short leashes, not long cords. And remove bibs, clothing with strings or ribbons, and necklaces before laying baby down to sleep.