I've been using Linux for 8 hours a day for 13 years and never done this. I use GNU's alternate syntax, which is easier:

   rm [object] [options]

Eg,

   rm /var/tmp/foo -rf

If you hit enter too early, nothing bad happens. Obviously doesn't work on HPUX, Solaris, DGUX or Ultrix, but if you're using those you have other issues.