ALERT: Babies could be at risk amid nappy bag warning to Irish parents

Suffocation fears have prompted the HSE to publish specific advice related to nappy bags and other plastics around babies.

Children can suffocate if something covers their nose and mouth. This can happen when your baby is asleep, presses their face against material or if something, like plastic clings onto their face. Suffocation can also happen when a child gets caught between the mattress and the cot or bed.

Suffocation is an example of asphyxia. Asphyxia happens when someone cannot breathe properly and oxygen does not reach the body's organs. It is one of the most common causes of childhood deaths.

In relation to plastic like that used in nappy bags, the HSE said: "Plastic can cling to your baby's face and cause suffocation. Store plastic packaging out of your child's reach at all times. This includes plastic bags
plastic nappy sacks and dry-cleaning packaging.

The HSE also advises parents to "always remove your child's bib after eating and before they go to sleep" due to suffocation fears.

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They add: "Do not put hairbands or headbands on children under the age of 3. Hairbands and headbands can slip down. They can cover your child's mouth and nose. This can cause suffocation."

The HSE also recently issued advice on the use of baby carriers and slings after the death of a child in Dublin.

The five-week-old baby boy was found unresponsive after returning from a walk where he was carried in a sling in Dublin in 2022, the coroner's court heard last week. His inquest heard he died 11 days later due to severe brain injury caused by a lack of oxygen, according to RTE.

The coroner said she would contact the HSE about the incident and to raise awareness about the specific dangers related to slings.

The HSE has published advice on slings which are popular with Irish parents to carry their young children on their chests.

A HSE statement on its website reads: "Baby carriers and slings are useful for carrying your baby and freeing up your hands. But they can be a suffocation risk. Always follow safety advice if you choose to use one."

They go on to add: "Not all baby carriers and slings are suitable for all babies. Make sure it is safe for your baby’s age and developmental stage. For example, it might not be suitable for babies who are newborn, premature, or have poor head control.

"Ask your public health nurse if you have any queries about using one with your baby. Always read the manufacturer’s safety information. Practice putting baby carriers and slings on and taking them off before using them with your baby. Check that buckles and straps are secure."

In terms of positioning a baby in a sling, they advise to remember TICKS, a set of specific guidelines.

"T - Tight enough to hug your baby close to you. Your baby should be positioned high and upright with head support. Any slack or loose fabric will allow your baby to slump down. This could restrict their breathing.

"I - In view at all times, with their face not covered with material or clothing. You should always be able to see your baby’s face by simply glancing down.

"C - Close enough to kiss - your baby’s head should be as close to your chin as is comfortable. By tipping your head forward, you should be able to kiss your baby on the head or forehead.

"K - Keep your baby’s chin off their chest so they can breathe normally. Make sure there is always a space of at least a finger width under your baby’s chin.

"S - Supported back. In an upright carrier, your baby should be held comfortably close to you. This means their back is supported in its natural position and their tummy and chest are against you."

They also issued a warning about body heat and slings: "Make sure your baby does not get too hot. It is easy to overheat because of the body heat shared between you and your baby. Adjust your baby’s clothing if you think your baby is becoming too warm."

The HSE had specific advice on feeding a baby while they are in a sling or carrier.

"Check the manufacturer’s safety instructions. Some recommend you don’t breastfeed in their products. The upright position is the safest position for a baby in a sling or baby carrier. Breastfeeding or bottle feeding may mean changing from an upright to a sideways or cradle position," they explained.

"As with any feed, watch your baby throughout. Make sure you can see your baby’s face and that they can breathe easily. Always place your child in an upright position immediately after a feed," they added.

When it comes to sleeping, they say: "If your baby falls asleep, remove them from the sling or baby carrier as soon as possible. Place them on their back to sleep. Laying on their back is the safest way for your baby to sleep. Sleeping in a baby carrier or sling could block your child’s nose and mouth. This can make it harder for them to breathe."