Like the ‘Tide Pod Challenge,’ the ‘Outlet Challenge’ is bringing new meaning to the warning, “don’t try this at home.”
The new challenge has gone viral on the app TikTok, and it involves using the plug of a phone charger, partially inserting it in an outlet, and sliding a penny down between the outlet and the charger prongs. The result: sparks, electrical system damage, and in some cases, fire.
And, now, the so-called “outlet challenge” is being blamed for multiple burnt electrical outlets in Massachusetts, prompting warning from local fire departments all across the nation.
“Kids who do this can not only electrocute themselves, but they can also start a fire behind the wall, short something out and not know until it’s too late ,” said DC Randy Crawford with the Paris Fire Department.
The warning originally came from Massachusetts State Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey who sent a letter to fire departments across the state last week, sounding the alarm about the social media craze.
“I wanted to make you aware of a new viral video that involves the unsafe use of electricity and fire,” said Ostroskey. “We have had two incidents in Massachusetts that we are aware of: one in Holden where a concerned mother sent a photo of a scorched outlet to a news outlet, and one at a Westford High School, which the Department of Fire Services investigated. The student(s) responsible for starting the fire at the Westford Academy will face charges.”
While the reasoning behind the new challenge is unknown, Crawford strongly suggests locals who are on the TikTok app to not engage in the challenge and create an unnecessary hazard or fire.
