Dangerous TikTok trend sparks fires in laptops — and Mass. teens are trying it at school
The TikTok trend has teenagers inserting a paper clip, pencil lead, or other conductive object into a laptop computer's charging port or other port. This can cause a short circuit that increases the device's temperature or causes smoke, sparks, or a fire, Massachusetts State Fire Marshal Jon Davine warned.
At least 14 teenagers have attempted the trend in the past week but fire officials believe the number is higher.
'No matter how smart your kids or students might be, please impress upon them that the only thing you should place in a computer port is the appropriate cord,' said Davine.
Most of the reported incidents were interrupted by teachers who spotted the abuse of school-issued laptops, fire officials said. The incidents occurred in Barnstable County, Essex County, Hampden County, Hampshire County, Middlesex County, and Worcester County beginning on or about May 6.
So far, only one minor injury has been reported but heavy smoke and device damage have been reported in some cases, officials said.
'Unfortunately, social media trends involving risky fire-related behavior are not new,' a press release stated. 'In 2020, numerous electrical fires and damage were reported after another challenge promoted dropping a coin onto the prongs of a power plug partially inserted into a wall outlet.'
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