Put down the emergency kit. The smartest and safest way to maneuver through the Black Friday mayhem? We’ll tell you. But first, a look back at the top 12 moments of Black Friday’s past.

From the small child passed out in a shopping cart to the uniform-clad spectators on a snack break, Mashable’s 12 Black Friday Hall-of-Famers will make you laugh out loud – and hopefully encourage you to stay inside where it’s warm and free of aggressive steal-seekers.

Bringing us to point number one. Not sure if you’ve heard, but there’s this thing called the Internet. Mind-blowing, I know. You get to scoop up every insanely priced find while eating leftovers and listening to holiday music by the fireplace (if you so desire). Let me be clear, though – urgency is still a factor, so waking up early is a good idea.

Make the right choice. The one that involves pecan pie under a fleece blanket. You get the gist. Happy hunting.

Visit Mashable for its 12 Black Friday Hall-of-Famers.

By Julia Ivins, Staff Writer

Tweet us your favorite Black Friday steals at @ruelala.

Not a Member and like The (Style) Guide? You’ll love Rue La La. Join now.