baby slings - safety alert
Babies have suffocated while using slings. They are at risk if placed incorrectly in a sling because they do not have the physical capacity to move out of dangerous positions and keep their airways clear. Babies who are under four months old, premature, of low birth weight or having breathing difficulties, appear to be at greater risk.
Safety tips when wearing and using a baby sling:
- Make sure the baby lies in as flat a position as possible, with a straight back to ensure the baby's chin does not rest on his or her chest
- Ensure the baby's chin is up and away from their body, as any pressure on the chin can close the airway. Ensure that baby's nose and mouth id always clear.
- Ensure you can always see the baby's face and that the face remains uncovered by the sling or your body/clothing
- Put the baby in a slanted or upright position. This will give the baby a straight, flat back with head support, the chin up and the face clearly visible.
For further information about baby slings, click here to visit the Australian Consumer and Competition Commission (ACCC) website to view their Safety Alert flyer on baby slings