New parents across South Yorkshire advised to 'always prepare' - when it comes to safe sleep for babies

There's a call for new parents across South Yorkshire 'not to ever get complacent' - when it comes to making sure babies sleep in a safe environment.

All this week - NHS staff from Sheffield, Doncaster, Rotherham, & Barnsley will be at Meadowhall - to give parents tips on how to prevent sudden infant death syndrome.

Michelle Young is a midwife at Barnsley Hospital - She has this advice:

"One of the main things is to never fall asleep on the sofa, or an armchair with the baby, because we don't want them to suffocate, or get wedged and overheat.

"Share a room with your baby for the first six months, lay your baby on its back, and keep the cot clear from toys, regardless of how cute they are.

"We want the mattress to be firm, flat, and waterproof.

"It's also crucial that the baby isn't sleeping around anyone who's smokes.

"Co-sleeping can be safe if you've prepared for it, but if you haven't, and you've recently had alcohol, drugs or medication that can make you feel sleepy, then it can be dangerous for the little one."

You can read more about safer sleep week below:

https://www.lullabytrust.org.uk/about-us/safer-sleep-week/

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• safer sleep week