Attleboro Fire Department Warns Parents of Troubling Viral Teen Video Resulting in Fire Incidents

ATTLEBORO — Chief Scott T. Lachance would like to warn parents of a new viral teen video that may result in fire incidents.

State Fire Marshal Peter Ostroskey released an advisory yesterday to inform the general public of multiple incidents that have taken place in Massachusetts. Though there have not been any reports of incidents involving these “challenges” taking place in Attleboro, officials would like parents to be aware of the new challenge.

The challenge seen on the popular video app, TikTok, involves partially inserting the plug part of a phone charger into an outlet and sliding a penny down the wall onto the exposed prongs. This action results in sparks and can cause electrical system damage and, in some cases, a fire. To view the video of the challenge click here.

“Video dares or challenges have become the latest phenomenon on the internet,” said Chief Lachance. “Teens have been seen videotaping themselves doing outrageous and dangerous acts just to gain online attention from their peers. We encourage parents to have a discussion with their children about the dangers of online viral video challenges and the threats they pose.”

Chief Lachance would like to provide the following electrical fire safety tips from the U.S. Fire Administration:

• Insert plugs fully into sockets.
• If you have young children, install tamper-resistant electrical outlets.
• Replace wall outlets if plugs do not fit tightly.
• Do not overload outlets.
• Never force a three-pronged plug into a two-slot outlet.

In addition to electrical fire safety, Chief Lachance would like to remind parents and children to discuss the dangers of certain online challenges and trends and recognizing dangerous activity on the internet.

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