ATLANTA — The Paris terror attacks have heightened safety concerns in metro Atlanta for the biggest shopping day of the year, Black Friday.
The prospect of a terror attack on Black Friday when holiday shoppers converge in malls and shopping centers is on the minds of law enforcement officials.
"A heightened awareness is certainly appropriate," security consultant Max Briggs said.
Briggs, a former Cobb police officer, told Channel 2's Tom Regan the Paris attacks, which happened so close to the holiday shopping season, will likely prompt retailers to scrutinize safety protocols, hire extra security for the added safety and peace of mind of their customers.
“I think you’ll have groups like the retail association all making all of their members more aware of things that could or may go on in or around their facilities," one security guard said.
Intelligence agencies said they haven't identified any specific terrorist threats, but believe there are Islamic State group cells in many states.
“Safety is a big concern, especially with these terror attacks,” shopper Pam Moss said.
"I think we have got to go about our daily lives, not be intimated,” shopper Elizabeth Sigler said.
Regan reached out to the Georgia Retail Association's communications director, James Miller, who provided the following statement:
“The attacks should force retailers, and businesses of all kinds really, to go back and review their safety and security protocols and procedures, and ensure that their business is able to both protect its employees and customers but also to respond effectively should an incident happen. Big-box/department stores and malls are generally some of the safest places to shop due to the increased security they have with security guards, high-tech anti-theft cameras and technology, as well as the large number of employees that constantly walk the floors.
"We always remind shoppers to be aware of their surroundings when they’re shopping. And with local police and businesses with a heightened sense of concern due to the fallout from the Paris attacks, we encourage shoppers to be even more alert and aware, and if they see something, tell someone.
"We are the Georgia Retail Association, and we represent and advocate for the more than 120,000 retailers in the state of Georgia – everything from big-box stores like Target, Macy’s and Home Depot to small mom-and-pop stores.”
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