TROY, Ala. (TROJANVISION) — Homecoming weekend is just days away, and with celebrations, parties and visitors expected in Troy, police are preparing for an increase in activity and reminding everyone to keep safety in mind.

“With homecoming and the advertisement of it being homecoming and there being parties, you have a lot of outside factors that play because, there are people from other towns that come just to party, and that can pose a potential threat.” said Sergeant Rachel Farmer with Troy University Police Department.

To prevent problems before they begin, officers are increasing their presence throughout the city.

“There’s events happening every night so we have extra units on patrol, and we are just being sure to stay mobile and watching everything continuously.”

Fans can also expect to see more officers working during Saturday’s football game.

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“Everyone works within an hour of the gates opening, all of our full time officers will be on duty,” Farmer said.

Police are also reminding students who plan to drink they have another way to get home besides getting behind the wheel. TUPD’s Choose Your Ride option is always available to students.

“If anyone is out and themselves, or their designated driver, they found they’ve been in consumption of alcohol and it’s unsafe for them to drive home, they can call us.”

That option is available to underage students as well. Farmer says the department would rather students call for a ride rather than risk driving under the influence.

“Even if you’re underage, the only thing that happens is we do a report and we send it to Student Services. Then you have to go through an alcohol education course. We would much rather you call us and get home safely then choose to get behind the wheel and possibly hurt yourself or someone else.”

As homecoming celebrations continue, police are encouraging students to look out for one another, plan ahead, and make safety a priority.