Two thirds of Brits consider themselves a risk taker with life’s top little risks including eating something past its sell by date, leaving the house with low phone battery, and not taking an umbrella out on a grey day.

The study of 2,000 adults also saw turning up at a restaurant without booking first, crossing the road on a red man and driving through an amber light appear in the top 30 list of risks taken every day.

Running from the shower to another room to grab a towel, having a cup of coffee before bed and putting the washing out on the line without checking the weather also featured.

A spokesperson for the Lottoland which commissioned the research, said: “We’re a nation of tiny risk-takers. Sometimes the chances we take can pay off – like turning up at a fancy restaurant with no booking, or trying your luck at a card game.

“But others, like going out without your bank cards or driving without petrol in the tank, are probably best avoided.

“We like to say what’s life without taking a chance every now and again? As long as you’re safe and savvy, adding a dash of harmless risk to your day can make the little wins feel like big ones.”

The research also found 65% consider themselves to be a risk-taker in their daily life. With 27% often failing to think through the consequences – although 96% have seen a risky situation pay off in the end. This left 20% feeling exhilarated and 15% like a winner.

It emerged Saturday is the most common day to take a chance and a fifth are most likely to take risks regarding their social life – while only 6% would take a chance when it comes to their job.

However, 42% wished they were more spontaneous or daring – because 52% think taking little risks makes life a bit more fun, according to those polled via OnePoll.

The spokesperson from Lottoland added: “It’s always thrilling taking a chance on something, especially when it pays off, so no wonder so many feel like a winner with these.

“Who knows what we might all be capable of with a little harmless risk in our lives.”