THE danger smoking poses to babies is being highlighted as part of a campaign by Bolton health chiefs to reduce infant deaths.

Research shows a youngster who regularly spends one to two hours a day in a smoky environment is more than twice as likely to die from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) as those not exposed to tobacco.

Those living in a smoky home where they are exposed all day are eight times more likely to die.

Health bosses started a Sleep Safe campaign at the end of June, which is being backed by The Bolton News, to try to stop preventable baby deaths. The hard-hitting initiative promotes safe sleeping messages and other ways the risk of SIDS can be reduced.

The town has a higher than average death rate, with a dozen babies dying in 2008-2009.

It is hoped the campaign will prevent as many tragedies as possible.

Now health chiefs are highlighting how smoking can be dangerous, encouraging parents to kick the habit or make their homes smoke-free. Lesley Jones, deputy director of public health, said: “Smoking in pregnancy and around a baby can be dangerous for a number of reasons.

“But the risk of sudden infant death is really high.

“By not smoking during pregnancy and by having a smoke-free home, a baby’s chances of survival are vastly improved.”

Find out more at fsid.org.uk or speak to a health visitor.