Bed-sharing fear over cot deaths

Babies who sleep in the same bed as their parents are at greater risk of cot death, according to research.

The Glasgow University study found babies sharing a bed were at risk even if the child was breast-fed and the parent was a non-smoker.

Dr John McClure, chairman of the Scottish Cot Death Trust, said parents should only have their babies in bed for a feed or a cuddle.

The research was carried out at the university between 1996 and 2000.

The charity said cot death could not be prevented but the risk could be reduced if parents followed simple advice.

HOW TO REDUCE COT DEATH RISK

Both partners should reduce smoking during pregnancy

Babies should be placed on their back to sleep

Parents should also ensure their baby does not get too hot

Keep baby's head uncovered

Seek medical advice promptly if your baby is unwell

In the first six months, a baby should sleep in a cot in the parents' room

Do not share a bed with your baby if you smoke, have been drinking or taking drugs or are very tired

Never sleep with a baby on a chair or an armchair

Babies should not sleep in their parents' bed, particularly in the first three months and adults have been warned against falling asleep with a baby on a couch or a chair.