The Gardaí are among the earliest responders when a sudden infant death occurs and it is likely that they will be speaking to the parents within a few hours of their child's death. The public is not generally aware that, under the Coroner's Act 1962, the Gardaí are required to notify the Coroner, and as the Coroner's agents are required to inquire into the circumstances of any sudden deaths where the deceased has not been seen or treated by a doctor within one month prior to the date of death, or of any death for which a medical certificate as to the cause of death is not procurable.

• The Senior Sergeant should ensure that all staff are fully aware of the facts, as well as the myths, about SIDS. ISIDA's training video for professionals should form part of their in service training programme. All Gardaí should receive specific skills training in active listening and in how to break bad news and cope with its immediate impact on heart-broken parents and family members.
• When you receive notification of a sudden infant death in your area, request the notifier to explain to the family that the Gardaí will be visiting them and the reason for this visit. If at all possible do not arrive in a marked Garda car. Parents appreciate the extra sensitivity shown when a Garda visits them in plain clothing.
• Always refer to the child by his/her name and acknowledge the reality of the child's death to the family.
• Explain the Garda procedures to parents and let them know what will happen next.
• Ask parents if there is anyone they would wish to have contacted on their behalf.

• Provide a family member with a copy of the booklet 'A Precious Past, A Hopeful Future' (available from ISIDA). Inform the family of ISIDA's Nationwide Support Helpline 1800 391 391 explaining to them that this service provides practical information as well as support to bereaved families.
• Leave you name and the telephone number of your station, so that the parents can contact you if they wish.
• Advise the National Sudden Infant Death Register of the child's death by contacting
  • Minicall: 1550 135 135
  • Phone: 01 - 8788455
  • Fax: 01 - 8787696
  • Address: Georges Hall, The Children's Hospital,Temple Street, Dublin 1.
• If you intend to visit the parents again at home or in the hospital, advise them (or a relative) about this and ensure that you keep this appointment or notify them if you cannot. If an unforseen need to visit the family arises, try to contact them first to let them know you are coming. Again, it is important that you try to visit them at this time in an unmarked car or in plain clothes.
• If an inquest is scheduled, ensure that the family are advised of this and the reason for the inquest. Ensure they receive adequate notice of the date of the inquest. Prior to the inquest explain to the family the procedures that will take place at it. If the inquest is cancelled, advise the family immediately.