MUMS and dads are being urged to make sure their babies sleep safe this Christmas.

The Bolton Council warning comes ahead of the festive period, when families change their routine and stay with relatives.

Sudden infant deaths are rare, but a significant proportion of the deaths are as a result of the child sleeping in a parent’s bed, on a sofa or in an armchair.

Parents are advised to ensure babies sleep in an appropriate cot in a room at the right temperature.

A council spokesman said: “The festive season is a time for families to get together and have fun.

“At this time of year people tend to change their routine and stay with relatives or attend parties and we would like to remind parents of new and young babies of the recommended safe sleeping advice.

“During periods of cold weather, families often turn up the heating at home or add layers to a baby’s cot, thinking they are keeping them warm and cosy.

“However, there are clear guidelines on the recommended temperature for a baby’s room.

“While there is no advice which can guarantee the prevention of sudden infant deaths, there are a number of things parents can do to reduce the risk to their baby:”

The warning follows on from Bolton Safeguarding Children Board’s successful Sleep Safe campaign, launched in 2011 with The Bolton News.

Experts have issued the following guidlines: l The safest place for a baby to sleep for the first six months is in a cot, Moses basket or crib in their parents’ room.

l Place the baby on their back on a firm mattress, with their feet at the end of the cot.

l Do not let them get too hot. Keep the temperature in the room between 16C and 20C.

Extra help is available for families who do not have a suitable cot for their child, under the Safe Start cot referral scheme, and individual needs should be discussed with a designated midwife or health visitor. For more information, go to: boltonsafeguarding children.org.uk/sleep-safe