Countdown to Black Friday
Tallahassee, FL - We are just days away from Black Friday. The merchandise is ready. The holiday decor is out. Tuesday night, plenty of parking spaces sat empty at Governor's Square Mall. There were no lines wrapped around Best Buy in Tallahassee and it was the usual amount of shoppers at any given weeknight in the Target on Thomasville Road. It may be all quiet now, but behind the scenes retail workers are getting ready for a stampede of shoppers.
"We got a great crowd management plan in place," said Jim Prescott is a manager at the Target on Thomasville Road.
He says Target plans to open its doors for 26 hours straight starting at 9 p.m. Thanksgiving and not closing until 11 p.m. Friday.
"We'll have stations out front, metering folks in just to make sure there's not any issues with safety," said Prescott.
And to keep shoppers moving some stores like JCPenny are stepping up the technology.
"We'll be able to take care of customers right on the selling floor and ring them up via computers," said Ray Gray, the store leader at JCPenny.
All stores have their own 'go time' for Black Friday, ranging from 8 p.m. Thanksgiving night to hours into Friday morning. Many have signs out front keeping shoppers well informed of when they'll be ready to open their doors for the Black Friday rush.
Have a Safe Halloween Night
 | Before your ghosts and goblins trick or treat this year, parents should keep in mind some safety tips. |
- Carry a Flashlight ~ A glow bracelet, necklace, or flashing attire also work well for visibility.
- Plan Route in Advance ~ Trick or treat in familiar neighborhoods or areas.
- Only Visit Lit Houses ~ Residents who do not wish to be bothered by trick or treaters often leave off their lights.
- Accompany Your Children ~ If they are older and trick or treat without an adult, set firm rules and have them carry a cell phone.
- Think Practical for Costumes ~ Be sure a child's mask allows full visibility and breathing.
- Inspect All Candy ~ Never allow children to eat candy before it is inspected and throw away anything that is opened.
CLICK HERE for more safety and planning ideas.
