Table 1

 The Department of Health recommendations for SIDS prevention in 2000 and 2004, and whether they have changed

2000120042 and 20053Changes
Place baby on its back to sleepPlace your baby on the back to sleepNo change
Create a smoke-free zone around your babyDo not let anyone smoke in the same room as your babyNo change
Do not smoke or let your partner smoke near you when you are pregnantCut smoking in pregnancy,—fathers too!No change
Do not let your baby get too hotDo not let your baby get too hotNo change
Place your baby in the “feet to foot” positionKeep your baby’s head uncovered—place your baby in the “feet to foot” positionNo change
Have your baby immunised, there is evidence to show this reduces the risk of cot deathDropped
Do not fall asleep on a sofa with your babyNow included in the section on keeping head uncovered
If you are a smoker, have been drinking alcohol,are very tired or if you are taking drugs or medication that may make you sleepy do not share a bed with your babyDo not share a bed with your baby if you have been drinking alcohol, take drugs or if you are a smokerNo change
Keep your baby’s cot in your bedroom for the first six months of lifeNow included in the section on keeping head uncovered: “The safest place for your baby to sleep is in a cot in your room for the first six months of life”
If your baby is unwell, seek prompt advicePreviously included in general advice