It’s tempting to pick up an appealing item we spot on the ground and take it home for free. But beware – these items could bring risks to your family. Here are some items you should think twice about before picking up:
Sharp Knives
Knives are typically made of hard metal, so if you find one discarded on the street or near a trash can, it may look brand new. You might be tempted to take it home and use it.
However, this could lead to financial loss and danger. Some knives may have been used for illegal activities, which could bring you unnecessary trouble.
Metal Chains Near Construction Sites
Construction sites often have small metal items lying around, which may tempt you to pick them up for scrap metal. However, metal in this area could be radioactive, as these items are often discarded from Type II radiation sources. This can be dangerous to your health. Avoid touching shiny metal objects or small metal parts near construction sites.
Doll by the Roadside
A discarded doll by the roadside may look cute and tempting to take home. However, dolls are often filled with bacteria, especially if found near trash bins. Moreover, some dolls may have hidden cameras installed, leading to a risk of your family being spied on. It’s best to resist the urge and avoid picking up dolls from such places.
Crutches and Wheelchairs
Crutches and wheelchairs are usually needed in special circumstances. If you come across these items on the street and intend to pick them up, think carefully, as they may bring bad luck to your family.
A netizen named @Rabbit shared: “My mother-in-law saw an old wheelchair next to a trash can and decided to take it. She thought she might need it someday, but not long after, she broke her leg and the wheelchair became very useful.”
While it may sound superstitious, I still advise against picking up medical equipment, medicine, or similar items from the roadside. Such strange coincidences can lead to misunderstandings.
Open Wallets
Picking up an open wallet from the street can easily make you a victim of a sophisticated scam.
A netizen, @Kiki, recounted: “Once, while walking, I saw someone drop a wallet and decided to open it. It was filled with 100-dollar bills. Before I could do anything, another person came and said he had also seen the wallet and wanted to share the money.”
I agreed, but soon the owner of the wallet came back and demanded the money. I was confused and quickly returned the money, but he and his companion insisted that I hadn’t given enough.”
“Out of embarrassment, I gave them another 3,000 yuan. Now, I deeply regret it. Obviously, the two were accomplices.”
In fact, there are many such scams, and some can even get you into trouble with the police. Be cautious and stay away from such suspicious situations.