Babies who overheat are at risk of cot death. Women's Editor Christen Pears asks what parents can do to protect their children

SEVEN babies die of cot death in Britain every week. It can occur anywhere and at any time, but because the cause is usually unexplained, the grieving parents are often left wondering if there is more they could have done to prevent it.

A survey published this week by the Foundation for the Study of Infant Deaths (FSIDS) found that parents could be increasing the risks to their baby by allowing them to overheat. Fifty-six per cent of those questioned did not know the correct room temperature for their baby, putting them at an increased risk of cot death.

One in five thought it should be hotter than the recommended temperature band of 16-20C (61-68F), and four out of ten thought their home was cooler than it actually was. Only a third of families with young babies said they have a room thermometer in the room where their baby sleeps.

Joyce Epstein, FSID's director, said: "Our message to parents is: look at and touch your baby to see if they are too warm, and keep an eye on the room temperature. Getting a simple room thermometer will help you create a safer sleep environment for your baby."

Cot death can happen to any family, although it is more frequent in those who live in difficult circumstances or who smoke a lot. It is uncommon in babies less than a month old but rises to a peak at two months. The risk then diminishes as the baby as the baby grows older. Very few occur after a year.

The numbers of cot deaths have been falling steadily for the last few years, largely due to increased awareness. In 1997 there were 414 nationally but by 2001, the figure had dropped to 326.

Mrs Epstein says: "There are practical steps you can take to reduce the risk to your baby. All of our advice is based on research and we know it is making a difference. In 1994, we launched the Back to Sleep campaign, encouraging parents to put their babies to sleep on their backs. That reduced cot death by 70 per cent."

* The FSID helpline can be contacted on 0870 787 0554. Visit the website at www.sids.org.uk.

* FSID and Cow & Gate are offering 9,000 free room thermometers via Cow & Gate's Careline, 08457 623 623.

How to reduce the risk of cot death

1. Cut smoking in pregnancy - fathers too.

2. Do not let anyone smoke in the same room as your baby.

3. Place your baby on the back to sleep.

4. Do not let your baby get too hot. Keep baby's head uncovered.

5. Place your baby with their feet to the foot of the cot, to prevent wriggling down under the covers.

6. It's safest to sleep your baby in a cot in your bedroom for the first six months.

7. It's dangerous to share a bed with your baby if you or your partner: are smokers (no matter where or when you smoke); have been drinking alcohol; take medication or drugs that make you drowsy; feel very tired.

8. It's very dangerous to sleep together on a sofa, armchair or settee.

9. If your baby is unwell, seek medical advice promptly.