Parents are being urged to be careful using baby slings with newly released data showing they are responsible for a number of fatalities in South Australia.
Three infants have died since 2010 while being carried in slings, and parents are being urged to fit them properly, SA Health's Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Dr Nicola Spurrier says.
"Suffocation can occur if a baby's face becomes covered or if they are incorrectly positioned in a C-shape with their chin on their chest, which can block their airway," Dr Spurrier said.
Advocate group Kidsafe SA said there is a misconception that slings are safe because babies are kept close to the carrier, but they are only safe if the user knows how to use them correctly.
"It is particularly important to exercise caution when purchasing a sling or carrier online, as you can't see the quality and fit of the product for your baby," CEO Holly Fitzgerald said.
