Child safety
Never shake a crying baby
Never shake the baby; place the baby safely in a suitable cot and call for adult support. If shaking has occurred, seek urgent medical help and tell clinicians what happened.
Last reviewed: 2026-09-20
Why it matters
Violent shaking can cause severe brain injury even without a visible external wound.
Wrong action
Shaking a crying baby to make the crying stop.
Correct action
Never shake the baby; place the baby safely in a suitable cot and call for adult support.
What to do
- Agree who can take over when the carer is exhausted or upset.
- Never shake the baby; place the baby safely in a suitable cot and call for adult support.
- If shaking has occurred, seek urgent medical help and tell clinicians what happened.
If something happens
For serious injury, unconsciousness or difficulty breathing, keep yourself safe, call 999 and follow the operator.
Sources and review
- Department of Health, Family Health Service — F2 家庭健康服務：虐待性頭部創傷
Last reviewed: 2026-09-20
This page provides general home-safety information and does not replace medical, legal, electrical, or other professional advice.