Nappy sacks: danger on the changing mat
Most of us have heard about keeping carrier bags away from babies and little children because of the risk of suffocation. But what about nappy sacks?
Nappy sacks are essential kit for many parents of babies and young children. They’re cheap, hugely convenient for dealing with soiled disposable nappies and some are even scented to mask the smell of the poo.
Like carrier bags, they’re made of plastic. Unlike carrier bags however, they:
- are small and flimsy, so not as noisy – you may not know if your baby’s got hold of one;
- are very thin so can easily cling to the face of a baby as they inhale and a young baby will be unable to pull it away;
- are likely to be kept within reach of babies and children, because they’re used for nappy changing.
Young babies under six months are at greatest risk of suffocation from nappy sacks. This is because they naturally grasp things and pull them to their mouths, but then find it difficult to let go.
Suffocation is not the only risk – choking can also happen if a baby inhales a bag.
Remember
It’s easy to stuff loose nappy sacks down the side of a cot or sofa, so you have them to hand when you need them for a change. But this makes it easier for babies to grab them and pull them to their mouths.
- Always keep nappy sacks well out of reach of babies and never put them in a cot, pram or buggy.
- Babies don’t have the control that adults have over their bodies. They can wriggle and squirm but it is harder for them to move out of a dangerous situation.
Did you know?
- Asphyxia (which also includes choking and strangulation) is the third most common cause of child accident deaths in the UK. Most of these accidents happen to children under 5.
- It takes just a few minutes for a baby to suffocate, and they are too weak to move themselves out of a position where they can’t breathe.