Erie County Health Commissioner Dr. Gale Burstein is warning parents of an increased risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) during these extremely cold winter days. The Health Department notes two infants have already died tragically this winter due to unsafe sleep environments.
Dr. Burstein says the Health Department is promoting the idea of a "naked crib" to ensure infants' safety.
"Newborns can not roll over. They're not strong enough to lift a a blanket or a sheet even away from their face so it's very easy for them to suffocate. The best thing to do is to use layers. Layer up the baby with multiple layers of pajamas and walking blankets. That's really the best way to keep the infant warm."
Dr. Burstein notes a "naked crib" means nothing but the sheet - no blankets, bumpers, pillows or stuffed animals. She also warns against taking your baby to bed with you.
"They want to bring the baby into bed to stay warm them and hug them, and I can understand that but really the best safest sleeping practice is to put your baby on its back, in it's own crib with nothing else in the crib. If you love your baby that's really the safest way to put it to sleep."
The Health Department warns overheating can also increase the risk of SIDS and advises to use caution not to over layer your child.
Click here for the Health Department's statement on the increased risk of SIDS during extreme cold weather.
Click here for Parents Magazine's video "Baby Care Basics: What is SIDS?"