One in five SIDS deaths occur at childcare

DALLAS, Nov. 3 (UPI) -- Twenty percent of sudden infant death syndrome deaths occur among infants who are in child care, U.S. researchers warn.

Dr. George Lister, chairman of pediatrics at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas advises parents to be sure caregivers do not place infants on their tummies for sleeping.

"It is impossible to predict which babies will die from SIDS, but parents and caregivers can reduce SIDS risks," Lister says in a statement. "Infants should always be placed on their backs and on a firm mattress to sleep, even for naps. Extra blankets, pillows and stuffed animals should be removed from the crib during sleep time."

A sleep sack is a good alternative to loose blankets if extra warmth is needed for infants during winter, Lister recommends. Babies should not be overdressed and room temperatures should be kept at a comfortable level for lightly clothed adults.

SIDS remains one of the leading causes of death for infants up to age 1.