Staying safe during the Homecoming season

Homecoming is known for bringing together students and alumni alike for a day of fun, but with that comes larger crowds and increased safety concerns.  

The Tropolitan wanted to know, how can those participating in the fun of Homecoming stay safe? 

According to the Troy University Police Department (TUPD), they always take extra precautions during Homecoming to keep fans safe before, during and after the game.  

“All TUPD personnel will be working during Homecoming,” said TUPD Police Chief George Beaudry. “The city police will also have extra personnel along with state and federal officers that will be in the Troy area that night.” 

Beaudry said along with the added personnel, all normal safety protocols will be in place to keep everyone safe. Sergeant Rachel Farmer said they will also be moving around a mobile camera trailer and keeping up road barricades longer to aid in controlling the extra foot traffic.  

Sergeant Farmer said the department’s number one issue on Homecoming is increased alcohol consumption.  

“You really need to be mindful of what you're drinking, how much you're drinking and who you're surrounding yourself with,” Farmer said. “I would say that nothing good happens after midnight.  

“If you're out after midnight, you're subject to getting to a situation you don't need to be in.”  

In addition to monitoring their alcohol consumption and heading back home before midnight, students are advised to stay aware of their surroundings and their company in order to stay safe during Homecoming. 

Haley Hoggle, a senior accounting major from Moundville, Alabama, has been a resident assistant for four semesters and a resident director for one. She said her tips for staying safe during Homecoming include being smart and using common sense. 

 “I would say do not be in a place with people you don't trust, and just be aware of your surroundings,” Hoggle said. “Always go towards the side of safe rather than sorry.”  

Hoggle advised RAs to stay strict on enforcing the housing rules and protocols to keep conflict from escalating out of hand within the dorms on Homecoming night.  

“I would remind residents that the rules are in place for your safety,” Hoggle said. “I would remind the RAs that there is always the Troy University police on speed dial if you need them, and they are very diligent to keep up with you.”  

Hoggle also wanted to remind students that they can still have fun and be safe.  

“Staying safe and having fun can coincide,” said Hoggle. “Just be aware of your surroundings and have discernment and know that things can happen that shouldn't happen.  

“Make sure that you're protecting yourself and know that mostly you're protecting the other people around. You be sure to be serving others during Homecoming and making sure that other people are staying safe, also.”  

Those who may find themselves feeling unsafe before, during and after Homecoming can call the police department’s non-emergency number at 334-670-3215 at any time or utilize the Omnilert app.