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4 dangerous things doctor would never let his kids do including have a trampoline

As a parent, it’s your job to keep your kids safe, and not letting them do certain activities can reduce the risk of injury.

A doctor has shared four things that he would never let his children do because they result in so many accidents.

Two children joyfully play in a large puddle - a little girl runs as the older boy kicks water at her
Children wear rubber wellington boots as they joyfully play outside in the rain. A large puddle has developed on the ground. The little girl runs through the puddle, creating splashes, whilst an older boy kicks water from the puddle towards her. She screams in delight as she runs away from him and towards the camera. A conceptual scene, depicting a rainy day and childhood. Credit: Catherine Falls Commercial (Getty Images)

4 things doctor would never let his kids do

Speaking on TikTok, NHS doctor Dr Arthur Joustra explained that these are some of the most common reasons he sees parents visiting the emergency department – so he would not let his own kids do them.

1. Play with magnetic balls

The first thing he would never do is let his children play with those magnetic balls that you can make shapes with. They seem like loads of fun but are really easy for little kids to swallow. It’s especially dangerous if more than one are swallowed as they can connect together inside the body with small bits of tissue between them.

2. Have snow globes in the house

Another thing he would never do is have snow globes in the house. They are made from glass which can easily shatter and cause cuts on the body, but the most dangerous part is the liquid inside. Many of them are made from a very toxic chemical called ethaline glycol which is found in antifreeze and can be fatal if ingested.

3. Have a trampoline in the backyard

The next one is a little controversial, he would not have a trampoline in the backyard, especially one above ground. So many emergency department visits come from trampolines including broken bones, sprains, twists, fractures and head or neck injuries. The safest way to have a trampoline is by getting it sunken into the ground with a net around it.

4. Let them cycle without a helmet

Finally, he would never let his children cycle without a helmet, which may seem obvious but it’s often-forgotten. Even if a child is going slow on a tricycle, there is a huge risk of head injury if they fall off. In severe cases, this can result in traumatic brain injuries, so putting a helmet on them is one of the best things you can do to protect your child.

How to keep your kids safe from injury

Safe Kids Worldwide�recommends doing the following 10 things to keep your kids safe from injury:

  1. Use a properly fitted car seat
  2. Secure furniture and TVs
  3. Check smoke and CO2 alarms monthly
  4. Keep medicines out of reach
  5. Don’t leave any batteries lying around
  6. Ensure they are safe while playing sport
  7. Be aware of distractions

Dr Arthur Joustra is an F3 NHS doctor working in Nottinghamshire, UK, currently completing training in the emergency department.