Safety warnings may be added to the printed labels of baby slings after the warning of a campaign group in New Zealand.
Ann Weaver, director of Safekids NZ, was speaking to Stuff.co.nz after the death of a newborn child in one of the slings, which are used all over the world as a way of carrying infants.
She explained that the little boy suffocated because his mother was not using the sling correctly and he did not have the mobility to turn his head to clear his airways.
"We'd like to see more warning and clear instructions on the baby sling so parents are aware of the risks," the expert added.
Manufacturers recommend that a baby sling should hold the child the same way as it would be cradled in a person's arms, with the head supported.
However, it may be that products similar to booklet labels are added to the carriers by some brands in order to provide more information for parents.
Which? magazine states that baby carriers can be useful in helping parents and children to bond, as the infant is able to smell and feel the presence of its mother or father.
Denny Bros Ltd, 13 October 2011
