Hearing announcements over the intercom while shopping is a common occurrence. How many times have we heard "cleanup on aisle six?" However, it can be a little unsettling to hear an announcement you don't recognize. I already knew some stores used color-coded announcements to alert associates and staff to certain situations, but I had never heard about "Code Brown" before. I had to find out what's what.

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According to an article from Yahoo, the particular meaning behind a "Code Brown" can be serious. When an associate calls this code, it means there is an act of violence happening in the store. Unless unsafe to do so, your best bet is to carefully exit the store. If law enforcement is on hand, it's important to follow any and all instructions.

Photo: Shelley Edmondson
Photo: Shelley Edmondson
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And there are even more color codes to be aware of. Should you hear these while shopping, they mean the following:

  • Code Black - severe weather (tornado warning)
  • Code Blue - bomb threat
  • Code Green - active hostage situation
  • Code Orange - chemical spill
  • Code Red - fire
  • Code White - injury/accident

Not all codes used are color-coded. For example, a "Code Adam" is an alert for a missing child. A "Code 300" or "99" followed by a location within the store means added security is needed in that area. More non-color codes include:

  • Code Spark - more cashiers are needed in front
  • Code 10 - wet spill
  • Code 20 - dry spill
  • Code 50 - shopping carts are needed from the parking lot
  • Code 1 - shoplifter
  • Code C - customer needs assistance
Photo: Shelley Edmondson
Photo: Shelley Edmondson
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The most important thing to remember if you hear one of these announcements: never panic. Even more codes shared by past and present Walmart employees can keep you better informed.

If you're a fan of the Dallas Cowboys, you won't believe the merchandise selection at this Walmart location. From shirts to flags and everything in between, it's all there. Take a look below.

This Texas Walmart Has The Largest Dallas Cowboys Section!

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