Safety guides on how to protect children from suffocation

Plastic bags from the dry cleaner and smaller bags that keep food fresh should be kept away from children. These bags are extremely dangerous, as they can cause suffocation if pulled over the head.

Suffocation is also a danger in a small child's crib. Sheets and blankets should be firmly tucked in, so there is no danger of the child's pulling the bedclothes over his head.

Pillows, too, are a hazard. A baby is not strong enough to lift his head, once he buries it in a soft pillow.

Check lists:

• Do not use pillows, duvets and bean bags for babies under a year old.
• Never use strings, ribbons and ties on very young children’s clothes.
• Strings on toys over cots or playpens should be shorter than 20 cm.
• Never string toys across a cot or pram.
• Stay with young children when they are eating or drinking and get them to sit still.
• Supervise small children if they are eating small pieces of fruit or vegetables. Do not give peanuts to children under six.
• Keep small objects like coins and parts of toys away from young children.
• Always keep plastic bags and plastic film away from children.
• Follow the age recommendations on toys – they are there for a reason.
• Don’t take your baby to sleep with you in your bed or on the sofa. You may accidentally suffocated him or her while you sleep.

See also : Health Canada report | SID Syndrome | Injury statistics and incidence rates