Preventing SUDI - Foundations for safe sleep - HE1099

Reviewed: March 2026

Child health

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Reviewed: March 2026
Updated: March 2026
Format: Pamphlet DLE
HE code: HE1099
Language: English

The full resource:

Preventing SUDI

Sudden Unexpected Death of an Infant

Foundations for safe sleep

What is SUDI?

Each year in Aotearoa, around 50 pēpi under 12 months old die from SUDI (Sudden Unexpected Death of an Infant).

This happens when a pēpi dies suddenly in their sleep, often without warning. Many of these deaths can be prevented.

What increases risk for SUDI

Māmā smoked during pregnancy
Bedsharing with pēpi if Māmā smoked in pregnancy
Unsafe sleep spaces
Alcohol or drug use around pēpi
Premature pēpi (born early) or very small (under 2500 grams at birth)

Smoking in pregnancy = 6 x increased risk of SUDI

Smoking in pregnancy & bedsharing = 32 x increased risk of SUDI

Foundations for safe sleep:

Good safe sleep practices begin during pregnancy. A healthy, supported Māmā with good kai, rest, and whānau around her gives pēpi the best start. Once pēpi is born, here are some ways whānau can keep pēpi safe every sleep.

Foundations for safe sleep:

Flat & Firm
Pēpi are safest in their own flat, firm bed with firm sides, like a wahakura, cot, or bassinet.
Face Up, Face Clear
Sleep pēpi on their back for every sleep, with nothing near their face like toys, loose blankets, cords or pillows.
Free
Pēpi is safest and well when they are in an environment that supports breastfeeding and is smoke, vape, alcohol, drug and harm-free.
Fathers & Family
Everyone in the whānau helps keep pēpi safe while they sleep and supports them to stay well.

Keep these practices consistent as pēpi grows and becomes more active.