The NHS are launching a safety campaign in the UK about the dangers of nappy sacks, after 11 babies suffocated having pulled the bags over their faces.
Commenting on the campaign, Children’s Accident Prevention coordinator and campaign founder Beth Beynon states ‘If we can take this campaign out to communities and reach parents, grandparents and carers we will have achieved one giant step towards preventing any more babies from needlessly dying.’
Katrina Phillips, Chief Executive at Child Accident Prevention Trust who support the campaign, says that 'Because nappy sacks are seen as an essential piece of parenting kit, parents don't realise that they are as dangerous to babies as plastic bags are to small children. They are often kept nearby, within easy reach, for nappy changing.' She also goes on to note that 'This campaign will remind parents that nappy sacks need to be kept out of reach of babies, particularly in the bedroom. Young babies are most at risk because they naturally grasp things and pull them to their mouths, but then find it difficult to let go. Nappy sacks are small and flimsy, and cling to babies' faces so they can't breathe.'
To avoid danger of suffocation and choking:
Always keep nappy sacks and other plastic bags and wrapping away from babies and young children
Never place nappy sacks in a baby's cot or pram.
