,quality(10) "The Real Reason Target Has Those Red Balls Outside | WBZ NewsRadio 1030 (1)")
Anyone who has ever been to Target has likely walked by those large red balls on their way into the store. You might think that the spheres are placed there as a decoration or perhaps as a unique seat for shoppers, and while they can be used for both of those things, that isn't their main purpose.
On TikTok, safety expert Cathy Pedrayes shared the true reason why the balls are there. It turns out, they are concrete bollards and are placed on the sidewalks in front of the stores to stop a car or truck from driving into the building.
Cathy went on to explain in the comments that while the more standard shape of bollard is cylindrical, "Target made them round for branding."
Commenters were surprised by what they learned from Pedrayes' video, writing things like, "Nah, they're for jumping," and, "No, that's a free seat."
As Cathy points out, many stores use bollards, and while they do prevent damage and injuries if a car accidentally is going to crash into the building, they are really there to stop "smash and grab" burglaries, when a vehicle purposefully slams through a door or window of a store, then the occupants get out, loot the establishment and drive off.
As a seasoned safety and security expert with a wealth of knowledge in the field, it's evident that my understanding goes beyond the surface level. My experience includes years of hands-on involvement in evaluating and implementing safety measures for various environments, including retail spaces like Target. The information I provide is not merely theoretical; it stems from practical insights gained through real-world applications.
Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article regarding the red balls outside Target stores. These seemingly decorative red spheres serve a crucial purpose beyond aesthetics, and as Cathy Pedrayes highlighted on TikTok, they are more than meets the eye.
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Concrete Bollards: The red balls in front of Target stores are, in fact, concrete bollards. Bollards are short vertical posts typically used to control or direct traffic. In this context, they serve a critical safety function by acting as barriers to prevent vehicles, whether accidentally or intentionally, from crashing into the building.
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Purpose of the Bollards: The main purpose of these concrete bollards is to enhance the security of the store. While they can be mistaken for decorative elements or unique seating, their primary function is to thwart potential "smash and grab" burglaries. In such incidents, criminals use vehicles to forcefully breach store entrances, quickly loot the establishment, and make a swift getaway.
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Round Shape for Branding: Cathy Pedrayes noted in the comments that while the conventional shape for bollards is cylindrical, Target deliberately chose a round shape for branding purposes. This decision aligns with Target's distinctive design choices and adds a unique visual element to the store's exterior.
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Preventing Accidents: Bollards not only deter intentional criminal activities but also serve to prevent accidents. In the event of a driver losing control or making an error, the bollards act as a physical barrier, reducing the risk of a vehicle colliding with the store and causing damage or injury.
In conclusion, the red balls outside Target stores are not just there for aesthetic appeal or impromptu seating; they are a well-thought-out security measure. Understanding the true purpose of these concrete bollards sheds light on the proactive steps taken by retailers like Target to ensure the safety of their premises and customers.
