14 Risky Habits ER Doctors Urge You to Stop Immediately
Simple adjustments in daily routines can significantly reduce your risk of emergency care.
When it comes to health and safety, a small risk can have life-altering consequences—especially from the perspective of emergency room (ER) physicians who see the full spectrum of accidents and emergencies daily. While you can’t eliminate all risks from your life, ER doctors want you to avoid certain common behaviors and shortcuts that regularly lead to injury or worse. Below, seasoned emergency medicine specialists share the 14 habits they say you should stop right now to keep yourself out of the ER—and what to do instead.
Why Listening to ER Doctors Matters
Emergency physicians uniquely observe the way rare—but serious—events play out. As Dr. Christine DeSanno, Chief of Emergency at NYU Langone Hospital-Suffolk, explains, “Just because the risk of something is 1% doesn’t mean it won’t happen—it means someone will be that 1%. When the downside is severe, even a small risk can be a big deal.”
Dr. Kerri Layman, Chair of Emergency Medicine at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, adds: “Calculated risks are a part of life, but there are habits where the risk is too great for any reward.”
1. Ignoring Ladder Safety
Falls from ladders are among the most frequent—and preventable—causes of fractures, head injuries, and sprains seen in the ER. Household chores like gutter cleaning or painting can quickly turn dangerous if you skip key precautions.
- Inspect your ladder for damage before each use.
- Wear slip-resistant shoes.
- Never use a ladder in high winds.
- Always set it up on firm, level ground.
- Maintain three points of contact (two hands and a foot or two feet and a hand) when climbing.
Simple vigilance means your home project won’t end with a hospital visit.
2. Skipping Annual Physicals or Not Having a Primary Care Provider
Regular checkups aren’t just routine—they are lifesaving. Undiagnosed conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or cancer often go unnoticed until they become emergencies. Annual wellness visits allow your doctor to:
- Assess your overall health and monitor any chronic conditions.
- Advise on cancer screenings, immunizations, and cardiovascular testing.
- Establish a relationship so they are familiar with your medical history if a crisis does arise.
If you don’t have a primary care physician, use your insurance plan’s directory or ask your network for a recommendation. Prevention is easier—and far less risky—than treatment.
What others are reading
3. Using Ladders Improperly for DIY Projects
Ladder-related injuries surge every year, especially during home improvement seasons. Dr. Jeffrey Sugalski cautions:
- Never lean too far to reach something—take time to move the ladder.
- Don’t climb a ladder when you’re home alone—always have someone nearby in case you fall or need help.
- Avoid makeshift fixes like standing on chairs, tables, or boxes instead of a proper ladder.
Following basic ladder safety protocols dramatically reduces your risk of a serious fall.
4. Ignoring the Dangers of Mixing Cleaning Products
Many people are unaware that some cleaning product combinations can create toxic—and sometimes lethal—fumes. For example:
- Mixing bleach with ammonia produces chloramine vapors that can damage your lungs and potentially cause respiratory failure.
- Bleach mixed with acids (found in some toilet cleaners) releases toxic chlorine gas.
Always read warning labels and never combine products unless the label specifically says it’s safe.
5. Driving Without a Seatbelt
Despite widespread safety campaigns, too many ER cases result from not buckling up. Dr. DeSanno emphasizes:
- Seatbelts save lives and dramatically reduce the risk of severe injury in an accident.
- This applies to both front and back-seat passengers, and even on short trips.
Buckling up should never be optional.
6. Swimming Alone or in Unsupervised Areas
Many tragic drowning incidents occur in home pools, lakes, or even hotel pools when no one is present to help. To stay safe:
- Never swim alone, regardless of your skill level.
- Always supervise children closely around any body of water—even if lifeguards are present.
- Learn CPR to be prepared in an emergency.
Simple caution can prevent a fun day from becoming a tragedy.
7. Texting While Driving or Walking
Distracted driving and even texting while crossing the street contribute to countless preventable ER visits each year.
- Texting takes your eyes off the road (or surroundings), delaying your reaction time dramatically.
- Pedestrians are also at risk—don’t assume drivers see you, especially if you’re looking down at your phone.
8. Taking Unregulated Supplements Without Medical Supervision
The supplement market is largely unregulated—many products marketed for weight loss or muscle gain can be harmful. Dr. Layman warns:
- Certain supplements, including some labeled as ‘natural,’ can damage your liver or kidneys.
- Supplements can interact dangerously with prescription medications.
Before starting any new supplement, discuss it with your healthcare provider.
9. Stopping Prescribed Medications Without Consultation
Discontinuing medication on your own can turn a manageable condition into an emergency.
- This is especially dangerous with blood pressure or heart medications, as high blood pressure is often “silent” but leads to serious damage.
- If you think you no longer need a medication, ask your doctor how to stop safely (sometimes this requires tapering).
10. Delaying Emergency Care When You Need It
Waiting too long to seek help for chest pain, severe abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, or sudden neurological changes (like weakness or trouble speaking) can mean the difference between full recovery and life-altering disability—or worse. Key points:
- Don’t “wait it out” if in doubt—err on the side of caution.
- Many conditions (heart attacks, strokes, appendicitis) worsen rapidly and benefit from prompt intervention.
11. Skipping CPR Training or Not Staying Up-to-Date
Most cardiac arrests occur at home, but just a few minutes without effective CPR can be fatal. Dr. Fairbrother notes:
- Immediate CPR doubles or triples survival rates.
- Visit trusted sources like the American Heart Association or Red Cross to find local courses.
Prepare yourself to step in if a loved one needs you most.
12. Smoking Tobacco Products (Even Occasionally)
There is no safe level of smoking. Dr. DeSanno explains:
- Smoking is a leading cause of heart disease, cancer, strokes, and chronic lung conditions.
- It’s never too late to quit—doing so reduces your risk of serious illness at any age.
- The CDC recommends resources such as 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669), texting QUITNOW to 333888, or the quitSTART app.
13. Letting Young Children Out of Your Sight (Especially Near Hazards)
ER doctors frequently see tragedies that could have been prevented with closer supervision:
- Always supervise small children around water, busy streets, or playground equipment.
- Use approved safety gates, locks, and seatbelts for car seats every time.
- Be vigilant about window guards and safety screens in multi-story homes.
14. Ignoring Signs of Mental Health Crises
Delays in addressing mental health emergencies can increase the risk of harm to self or others. If you or a loved one is at risk:
- Seek help immediately—ERs can provide lifesaving assessment and stabilization.
- Know the resources in your area, such as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
- Don’t minimize symptoms like suicidal thoughts, severe anxiety, or psychosis—timely help saves lives.
What ER Doctors Wish More People Knew
These warnings aren’t meant to frighten—they’re here to encourage smarter choices and proactive care:
- Even a rare risk becomes very real for someone—don’t assume “it won’t happen to me.”
- Using protective equipment, seeking preventive care, and trusting your instincts about emergencies can make all the difference.
- When a behavior is both common and risky, the reality is that someone will pay the price—don’t let it be you or your loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to use household cleaners together?
No. Mixing common cleaners like bleach and ammonia or acids can produce harmful or deadly gases. Always read warning labels, use one product at a time, and ventilate the area well.
Should I stop my medication if I feel fine?
Never discontinue prescribed medication without consulting your doctor—even if you feel well. Some conditions, especially high blood pressure, can cause damage without symptoms.
How often should I see a primary care doctor?
At least once a year for a checkup. Your doctor may recommend more frequent visits if you have chronic medical conditions or are at higher risk for certain diseases.
What’s the best way to encourage loved ones to quit smoking?
Share resources from the CDC or local quit lines, and support them emotionally. Quitting is difficult, but support and professional help increase success rates.
Where can I get CPR training?
Check with the American Heart Association, the Red Cross, local community centers, or hospitals for classes in your area. Most courses take just a few hours and can equip you to save lives.
Key Takeaways for a Safer Life
- Be proactive about both everyday risks and health maintenance.
- Consult your physician before changing your medicine or supplement routine.
- Don’t underestimate the value of prevention—whether it’s seatbelts, smoke alarms, or checkups.
- Take safety seriously, even for ‘routine’ tasks like climbing a ladder or driving in your neighborhood.
By steering clear of these common mistakes and adopting safer habits, you’ll greatly reduce your risk of ending up in the ER—and keep yourself and your loved ones healthier, longer.
References
- https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/a64624114/things-er-doctors-want-you-to-stop-doing/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7081850/
- https://www.truthaboutnursing.org/news/2005/nov/good_housekeeping.html
- https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/lifestyle/a64588892/tilly-rose-be-patient/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TKUapYNYPgA
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