When you're in the emergency room, it's not just about fixing what's broken; it's about preventing serious injuries that could change lives forever. As an ER doctor, I’ve seen it all—from motorcycle crashes to dangerous kitchen disasters—and there are some things you just won't catch me doing. These are lessons learned the hard way, and today, I’m sharing them with you so you can avoid a trip to the ER (or worse). Here's a breakdown of 12 things I would never do as an ER doctor, and why you shouldn't either.
1. Ride a Motorcycle Without a Helmet
Motorcycle accidents are some of the most traumatic cases we handle in the ER. Without a helmet, riders are at risk for severe head injuries, including concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injuries (TBI). But it’s not just the head—road rash, broken bones, and severe leg injuries are common when protective gear is neglected. Wearing helmets, jackets, and boots can make the difference between life and death, or permanent disability. Wearing a helmet is not just a suggestion—it’s critical for survival.
2. Hold on to a Firework Too Long
Fireworks can be a lot of fun, but they can also cause horrific injuries. In the ER, I’ve treated many patients who suffered serious burns, amputations, or mutilations from improperly handled fireworks. These injuries often require surgery, skin grafts, and long-term rehabilitation. If you’re handling fireworks this holiday season, leave them to the professionals to avoid becoming another burn victim.
3. Use Gasoline to Start a BBQ
Using gasoline to ignite a BBQ might seem like a shortcut, but it's incredibly dangerous. Gasoline vapors are highly flammable and can create explosive fires that can cause severe burns. These burns often require multiple surgeries and months of recovery. Don’t risk a trip to the burn unit—always use charcoal lighter fluid designed for BBQs, and follow safety precautions.
4. Shovel Snow If You Have Heart Issues
While shoveling snow might seem harmless, it’s actually a serious risk for people with heart conditions. The combination of cold temperatures and physical exertion puts immense stress on the heart, triggering heart attacks. If you're at risk for heart disease, ask for help—shoveling snow could be the difference between a healthy winter and an emergency room visit.
5. Eat Fugu (Pufferfish)
Fugu, or pufferfish, is a Japanese delicacy that can be deadly if not prepared properly. It contains tetrodotoxin, a poison that is 1,200 times more toxic than cyanide. While it's a rare cause of death, it's one I’ll never take the chance on. Fugu poisoning is deadly, and with no known antidote, it’s simply not worth the risk.
6. Jump Into Unknown Water
Whether you're jumping into a lake or a swimming pool, never assume you know what’s beneath the surface. Submerged rocks, shallow bottoms, or unexpected debris can lead to catastrophic spinal cord injuries, broken necks, and even paralysis. Know the water conditions before diving in. Spinal injuries often require surgery and rehabilitation, so it’s best to avoid the risk entirely.
7. Ignore Chest Pain
Ignoring chest pain could cost you your life. In the ER, chest pain is a major red flag for heart attacks, pulmonary embolisms, or aortic dissections—conditions that can be fatal if not treated quickly. Never dismiss chest pain. Early intervention can make a huge difference in outcomes, so always seek immediate medical attention, even if you think it’s just indigestion.
8. Deep-Fry a Turkey Indoors
Deep-frying a turkey can lead to disaster if not done correctly. Indoors, the risk of explosion is high, and oil fires can burn homes down in seconds. I've seen patients with severe burns, ranging from second-degree to life-threatening third-degree burns, after turkey fryers ignited. Always fry turkeys outside and with caution to avoid this dangerous holiday mishap.
9. Use a Lawn Slide as an Adult
As fun as it may seem, using a water slide as an adult is a recipe for disaster. The extra weight and speed of adults make injuries, such as head and spinal fractures, much more severe. Check the yard for hazards like rocks, sticks, or debris before jumping in. Safety should always come first to avoid a visit to the ER with a broken neck or back.
10. Skip a Seatbelt
It doesn’t matter whether you're driving your own car or riding in a taxi—always wear your seatbelt. Not wearing a seatbelt significantly increases your risk of severe injuries or death in a car accident. I’ve treated patients who were thrown from vehicles or suffered fatal injuries because they weren’t buckled in. Buckle up—it could save your life.
11. Carry a Gun in the Belt Loop
Gun safety is critical, and carrying an unsecured firearm is a major hazard. Accidental discharges from improperly secured weapons often lead to soft tissue damage, organ damage, or even death. If you carry a firearm, always use a secure holster and handle it responsibly. Proper gun storage and handling are essential to avoiding life-threatening injuries.
12. Drink and Drive
Drunk driving is a preventable tragedy. In the ER, I’ve seen firsthand the destruction it causes, from shattered bones to traumatic brain injuries and even fatalities. Driving under the influence not only endangers the driver but also everyone else on the road. Never drink and drive—always plan ahead and use a designated driver or a rideshare service.
Conclusion: Prevention is Key in the ER
As an ER doctor, my job is to treat injuries, but prevention is always the best medicine. By avoiding the 12 things listed above, you can drastically reduce your risk of ending up in the ER. Remember, safety precautions, awareness, and common sense are your best defenses against life-threatening injuries. Share this post with friends and family to help spread the word and keep everyone safe. Stay cautious and healthy—your future self will thank you.
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