OXFORD, Ohio -- Oxford first responders are preparing for what could be a very busy weekend at Miami University.
Two big events are coming up in Oxford this weekend: it's homecoming, and Miami University plays the University of Cincinnati Saturday night.
Last school year, both the police and fire departments saw record numbers for alcohol-related calls.
While first responders hoped to see a positive change this year, the fire chief said that wasn't the case last Friday when 17 calls came in. This semester has otherwise been about the same as last year for first responders.
Fire Chief John Detherage said hauling students to the hospital caused a problem for other locals who needed help.
"I know some people had to wait because of all of our resources being drained," he said.
Detherage is hoping this weekend goes better. They have extra people scheduled.
"Hopefully it won't be as bad as we are anticipating, but we have planned for the worst and hope for things to go well," he said.
The Oxford Police Department and Miami University Police Department will also have additional officers working this weekend.
First responders aren't the only ones preparing. Donald Breen has been a member of Victory Christian Church for more than 40 years. The church on South Beech Street is surrounded by homes where Miami University students live.
"There will probably be a lot of parties this weekend," he said.
For years, Breen has dealt with the mess that partygoers leave behind.
"They would throw their beer bottles and beer cans all over on us," he said.
Part of the church's fence and playground have also been broken, and Breen said students were responsible.
"When they are sober, they are a lot different (than) when they have been drinking," he said.
Detherage asked students to be responsible and not drink to excess.
"Don't put yourself in a position where you are going to get in trouble, or possibly cause yourself to have a life-changing event," he said.
