[CindyDawg]

Oh. I hope it's ok to post this while we wait but I just asked because not to be over concerned but prepared, I treat malls like planes and hotels. I pay attention to exits. Maybe that's a false security though. I'll have to ask mall management if you can actually get out in an ER.

[cripplecreek]

"I pay attention to exits."


It's a good habit to have. I used to frequent a bar that was often overcrowded. I would set by one of the exits and even check to make sure it was unlocked. My friends called me paranoid until the fire in Rhode Island.

[PennsylvaniaMom]

Its good to be prepared, but from the mall/store point of view, they are looking at the logistics of day to day operation, and I would guess retail theft (be it shoplifting or employee theft) is a big concern.

The mall that I frequent has main entrances, and the larger retailers also have store entrances (from the the outside, as well as the mallside). But most small type stores (like the Gap--where the woman was supposedly calling from) only have public access from the mallside. The back door is for receiving and alot of those are electronically locked (manager's password)...so I just thought if it was a smaller store, staying in the locked backroom was safer than a run into the mall 'open space' for a mall exit.