The Colorado Springs Fire Department (CSFD) has been made aware that a dangerous, viral TikTok Chromebook Challenge has made its way into schools in the Pikes
Peak Region.
The challenge encourages students to put a piece of metal or pencil lead into the charging port for the Chromebook. The reaction will then cause the device to spark, smoke, or catch fire. This challenge poses serious safety risks, including fire, battery explosions and the release of toxic fumes. In addition to the above risks, if the Lithium-Ion batteries located in the Chromebooks catch fire, they can be exceedingly difficult to extinguish.
CSFD has been contacted by several school districts in the Pikes Peak Region to report these incidents. As of Friday, May 9, CSFD is aware of at least 16 instances where this trend has taken place. Multiple students have been referred to the CSFD Youth Firesetter Intervention Program. Most school districts require students involved in these incidents to go through this program for fire safety awareness.
At this time, the incidents have stayed relatively minor and have not required a response by fire crews. CSFD encourages parents to have a conversation with their students about the dangers of tampering with any electronic device.
CSFD is working with school districts in the region as well as School Resource Officers to ensure they are well-versed on the challenge and follow the correct protocol in handling the situation. CSFD’s goal is to educate parents and caregivers on this trend to ensure their students are acting in a safe and smart manner.