In 2008, a worker at a Long Island Wal-Mart died after being trampled in a Black Friday stampede. According to news reports, an "out-of-control" mob of frenzied shoppers smashed through the store's front doors, knocking several employees to the ground and prompting others to climb atop vending machines for their own safety.
With Black Friday sales and the Christmas shopping season just ahead, retailers are being reminded to keep the safety of their employees a top priority – especially those who are temporary and/or young and may lack experience in dealing with crowds.