New Guidelines Make Black Friday Shopping Safer For Oklahomans

Walmart is now guaranteeing some of their hot items if you are in line within an hour of the time the item goes on sale.

Tuesday, November 26th 2013, 5:46 pm



It is becoming as much a tradition as Thanksgiving Turkey: that mad dash through the store door to get those Black Friday bargains. In 2008, a New York Walmart employee was killed in a crush of shoppers.

The potential for problems has become so big even some police chiefs have asked for change.

"There is an increased incident for people to get hurt or some type of disturbance where we have to get involved," said Chief Brandon Clabes with the Midwest City police department.

The Federal Government has now come out with guidelines to make that process safer. But the nation's largest retailer says they are changing it all together.

"We're really focused on safety," said Walmart Spokesperson Katie Cody.

Walmart is now guaranteeing some of their hot items if you are in line within an hour of the time the item goes on sale.

"As long as they're there they can get that item either that day or if we run out of it that day we can get it to them before Christmas," Cody said.

For items in a limited supply, the store is handing out wristbands.

"You don't have to fight your way through the crowds, you can feel comfortable that you're going to get the item you have come for," Cody said.

Individual stores also have a safety plan that includes spreading hot items out throughout the store.

OSHA has issued a long list of guidelines for stores that includes handing out wristbands or tickets like they are going to do at Walmart.

OSHA is also recommending using an internet lottery for those hot items.

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