Deadly Weapons?

I went into Oxfam to see if they had any odd balls of wool, and any knitting needles.
They used to keep the knitting needles on the top shelf in a big pot, but there were none there, so I asked.
"Oh, we're not allowed to keep them in the shop now," said the lady behind the counter. "Health and Safety...."
"...in case a customer runs amok with them and stabs someone?" I guessed.
She nodded - and went to the stock room to see what they had. This was probably more hazardous for her than keeping the needles out on display, as there are stairs, and she was walking with a crutch.
Nothing in the size I wanted, sadly, so I moved on to the Red Cross. They keep their knitting needles under the counter. They had the size I needed, and a good stash of tapestry wool that I can make into little balls for the kids to weave with on Viking days. And five balls of blue mohair. Now I've finished my shawl, with ribbing, and basketweave stitch, and moss stitch, I'm feeling enthusiastic enough to try a jumper. I just need eight more balls in two contrasting colours for the ultra simple one I have in mind.
I looked into Bedecked, in Backfold, the shop that sells trimmings, and buttons and wool, and I looked into Wool and Willow. Both shops keep tubs of knitting needles openly on display.