Western University’s campus is buzzing as students and alumni prepare for a weekend of football, festivities and Homecoming traditions. The annual event is expected to bring large crowds to campus and surrounding areas, prompting police, emergency services and university officials to prepare for the weekend. “We’re excited for the weekend,” said Western University Provost (Students) John Doerksen. “It’s a great opportunity for alumni and students to come back to campus, reconnect with old friends and celebrate.” Alongside the celebrations, authorities are mounting a major safety operation and warning people against large, unsanctioned street parties. London police Inspector David Pratt said officers have been planning for the weekend for months with London Fire Services, paramedics, the City of London, Western University, Fanshawe College and other community partners. “We’ll be well prepared and out in the community to show a presence,” Pratt said. Police say additional officers will be deployed throughout the weekend, including support from neighbouring police services. Hamilton police, Windsor police and the Ontario Provincial Police are expected to assist London police with enforcement and patrols. Officials are urging people to avoid large, unsanctioned street gatherings, warning that violations can result in fines or criminal charges. Western is encouraging students to take part in organized events on campus. The football game remains a major draw, while the university is also hosting a Fan Festival featuring free food and activities for students. “We have really good programming for students,” said Doerksen. “We have the football game, of course, that’s always a big draw, and we have something we call Fan Festival. So that’s an opportunity for students to come. There’s free food there. There’s all kinds of activities.” London Health Sciences Centre is also preparing for a potentially busy weekend. Dr. Vico Dagnone, head of emergency medicine at LHSC, said staff want people to enjoy Homecoming while making responsible decisions. “We just want to make sure that everybody is safe and responsible,” said Dagnone. “We don’t want Homecoming remembered for the wrong reasons. We want it to be memorable for all the right reasons. But if you do need our medical care, we’ll be there for you.” Officials say the goal is not to prevent people from celebrating, but to encourage people to do so safely and responsibly.
