Avoid The BLACK Friday Injury BLUES

MAKE-IT-SAFE-MONDAY

​It’s approaching that time of year when we get to take a short, but needed, break from our busy lives to sit down at a table with your friends and family, be thankful for all we have, maybe watch a football game or two, and celebrate Thanksgiving together.  After everyone is full and the leftovers are put away it starts feeling a little less like Thanksgiving as people start to look at the latest deals that they will be able to get the following day on Black Friday.

                           

​I personally do not partake in the shopping on Black Friday, but as the busiest shopping day of the year, I know many people do.  Although this day can be fun, it can also be very dangerous.  It is important to be prepared and put your safety,and the safety of others, above any deal in the store.  There isn’t a deal that is worth getting injured over.

​One of the biggest potentials for injury is the minute the doors open up and people start to push and shove to get in faster.  It seems like every year you hear about someone getting seriously injured or even killed as people flood in and trample someone that fell.  If you are waiting in line for the doors to open and there is a huge crowd, I’d advise moving back in the line a bit. If there is a chance of someone pushing you over, it’s not worth it.  When walking with the crowd, keep an eye on your feet and wear good shoes to prevent from tripping. 

​There are many other bad things that could happen that are not due to physical injury.  Black Friday is the busiest day for shopping and also one of the biggest day for thieves.  In the busy hustle and bustle of shopping it is easy to lose track of a bag or two.  There are people out there that are waiting for you so look the other way and swoop in and take something you just bought.  Not only that, but people will watch to see if you are using cash or cards.  If you are using cash you are much more likely for someone to try to pick-pocket you.  Keep your money close and protected.  Using cards is usually a better plan because they can be canceled if needed.  When putting your bags back into your car, make sure to put them in the trunk so people don’t get tempted as they walk past your car. 

                         

​Usually shoppers don’t brave Black Friday alone.  They usually go in groups.  When you are in a group make sure to have a plan if you are splitting up or accidentally get split up, as phones might not be as reliable in the crowded shopping centers.  Setting a meeting place at a certain time before hand is a very good idea so everyone can get back together.  This is especially important if younger kids are going to be shopping with you.  Another helpful hint is memorizing what your group members are wearing so you can identify them easier from a distance. 

​I’ll be at home this year as the stores open up on Friday, but to all those who are going out to get the deals, remember, no deal is worth getting hurt over.  Stay safe this BLACK Friday!

Dale Bromenshenkel

Demand Generation Specialist, Lift’n Buddy, a Southworth Company

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