We refer to Ms. Loy Xue Qian’s letter, “Parents should be reminded of safety rules for children in cars” (March 25).

Under the Highway Traffic Act, anyone under 1.35m tall must be restrained with an approved child restraint or seat belt. Drivers who fail to comply may be subject to a fine not exceeding $1,000, imprisonment not exceeding three months, or both, for a first offence.

Penalties are higher for subsequent offences. If the composition is offered to them, the pilots will also receive demerit points.

The traffic police carry out regular checks against motorists who do not comply with this requirement.

We also regularly educate the public on the importance of young children being properly restrained in an approved child seat or booster seat when in a moving vehicle. We are working closely with the KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH) on this.

KKH has published some guidelines to improve the safety of children in cars. For example, children 12 and under should not ride in the front passenger seat of a vehicle.

More information is available on the hospital website (https://www.kkh.com.sg/patient-care/conditions-treatments/buckle-up-saf…).

Brenda Ong (superintendent)

Deputy Director (Public Communications Division)

Public Affairs Department

Singapore Police