EDGAR COUNTY, Ill. (WCIA) — As students return to school, teachers and educators offer many reminders. However, law enforcement has important advice to share as well.

Doug Cochran from the Kansas Police Department spoke with WCIA 3’s Amanda Brennan to provide crucial reminders for both drivers and pedestrians, especially concerning school buses and stop signs.

“Stay alert, watch for buses, pay attention to red lights and stop signs. Keep your eyes open,” Cochran advised. “Kids should head directly to the school bus, but sometimes they walk around it. When I was younger, I was hit by a car right after getting off a bus.”

Cochran also said drivers should be aware of their surroundings when it gets dark out.

“As the winter comes along we get less daylight. Just be aware of the bus,” he added.

Drivers must be vigilant for children, adhere to speed limits, and obey all traffic regulations. In addition, Cochran offered some guidance to parents regarding classroom issues, emphasizing that most matters can be resolved within the school.

“If there’s an issue with a teacher, I recommend contacting the principal or superintendent to express concerns,” Cochran said. “For bullying, ensure your child talks to their teacher. If the teacher doesn’t address it, escalate to the principal. It’s essential the child communicates with you and the teacher, so it can be addressed promptly.”

But Cochran’s advice doesn’t stop there; he’s also focused on drug awareness, and making sure kids are safe and educated.

This fall, the Kansas Police Department will visit county schools with the “One Pill can Kill” program, in partnership with the DEA from Chicago.

“We’re going into the schools, and we’re going to teach the children, the educators. And then we’re going to also hold a community event on October 1st, at 6 p.m. at the Paris Fine Arts Center for Edgar County residents, as well as any of the residents in the surrounding counties,” Cochran said.

Cochran encourages any schools interested in the “One Pill can Kill” education program to reach out to him at 217-712-0172 or KPDdcochran22@gmail.com.