Tshwane residents urged to be safe during Black Friday shopping
The Tshwane Emergency Services Department has issued a safety warning and tips for retailers and shoppers to abide by to ensure all enjoy safe shopping.
Every last Friday of November, scores of consumers rush to their favourite stores in search of the best deals on what has become known as Black Friday.
Previous Black Fridays have shown that safety hazards such as overcrowding and stampedes are a factor to consider when approaching the weekend.
So the Tshwane Emergency Services Department has issued a safety warning and tips for retailers and shoppers to abide by to ensure safe shopping.
As spokesperson Charles Mabaso puts it: “Shoppers looking to score savings on valued items that they intend to purchase may flock to some retailers in larger than normal numbers, possibly overcrowding the capacity of some retail outlets.
“We call on retailers and shoppers to ensure fire and life safety on Black Friday on 25 November 2022,” Mabaso continued.
Some of the pre-emptive steps retailers can take include:
Managing crowds that may lead to possible stampedes.
Ensuring that escape routes are not obstructed.
Ensuring that firefighting equipment is not obstructed.
Ensuring that an updated evacuation and emergency plan is in place.
Ensuring the safe stacking of goods in storage areas and inside retail outlets.
And for those intending to enjoy a shopping spree this weekend:
Cooperate with security officers controlling queues at retail outlets.
Avoid any situation that may lead to a stampede.
Ensure that daily doses of chronic medication are taken before going shopping.
Stay well hydrated during long shopping periods.
Be mindful of children becoming suffocated in overcrowded spaces.
Be mindful of forklifts in retail outlets where such may be in operation.
“City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department Fire Safety Officers will be visible in various regions of Tshwane to monitor retail outlets,” Mabaso concluded.
To report a fire or rescue emergency, dial 107 toll-free and for medical emergencies, dial 112 toll-free.
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