As a community that cherishes family and the safety of our little ones, it's crucial to stay informed about potential hazards in everyday places. A recent incident at a Coles supermarket in Melbourne has raised concerns about the safety of children in seemingly secure environments. This story serves as a reminder to all parents and grandparents to remain vigilant, even in routine situations.

A Melbourne mother, Anna (name changed for privacy), experienced every parent's nightmare when her three-year-old daughter, Mackenzie, had a close call with the automated safety gates at her local Coles. Anna recounted the harrowing experience to Kidspot, emphasizing her desire to spread awareness and help other parents protect their children.


The incident occurred at the Cranbourne Park Coles, where Anna, accompanied by her nine-month-old son in a pram and Mackenzie walking beside, had just finished shopping. As they were leaving through the exit gates, which are a common feature in Coles stores, the situation took a frightening turn.


Anna described the events unfolding in 'almost slow motion.' The gates, which are supposed to remain closed until someone approaches, were inexplicably open from a distance. As Mackenzie stepped forward, the gates began to close. Anna's maternal instincts kicked in, and she shouted for her daughter to stop. Thankfully, the gates reopened just before making contact with the child, preventing what could have been a painful injury.


Shaken by the incident, Anna immediately contacted Coles customer service. The response she received was mixed. While a Coles representative assured her that a technician would inspect the gates, follow-up communication seemed to downplay the severity of the incident. Coles maintained that their gates are safe, vetted, and compliant with all necessary regulations, as confirmed by CCTV footage and external reviews.

In an attempt to address the situation, Coles offered Anna a $50 gift card as a 'gesture of goodwill.' However, Anna felt this response was inadequate compared to the potential danger her daughter faced. Her primary concern remains the safety of children around these automated gates.

Coles has reiterated their commitment to safety, stating that the smart gate technology is designed to the highest standards, with sensors to detect objects and prevent the gates from closing on customers. They assured that the gates operated correctly during the incident and that they take all safety concerns seriously.


This story is not just about one mother's scare; it's a wake-up call for all of us who care for young children. Automated systems, while convenient, are not infallible. It's essential to keep a close eye on our kids, especially in busy public spaces where we might assume they are safe.

We urge our readers to share their experiences and thoughts on this matter. Have you encountered similar safety issues in stores or public places? How do you ensure the safety of your children or grandchildren in these environments? Your insights could help others prevent such close calls in the future.
Let's use this incident as a catalyst for discussion and change, ensuring that our shopping experiences remain safe for everyone, especially the most vulnerable among us. Your voice matters, and together, we can advocate for safer spaces for our families.