Canton Fire Chief Warns Of Dangerous New Teen Video Challenge

CANTON, MA — Canton Fire Chief Charles E. Doody is warning parents about the dangers of a new viral video in which teens are "challenged" to use a penny, electric outlet and the exposed prongs of a phone charger to cause sparks. State Fire Marshal Peter Ostroskey said two incidents have already taken place in Massachusetts, though there have been no reports of one in Canton.

The challenge on TikTok involves partially inserting the prongs of the charger into the outlet and sliding the penny down the wall to the exposed prongs. The ensuing sparks can cause a fire or damage to the electrical system.

"Participating in any of these viral trends or challenges can be dangerous and have serious repercussions," Chief Doody said. "We want parents to be aware of this trend so they can help to educate their kids about the danger and prevent possible fires, electrical damage or injuries."

Residents are advised to always fully insert plugs into sockets, install tamper-resistant electrical outlets in homes with young children, replace wall outlets if plugs to do fit tightly, do no overload outlets and never force a three-pronged plug into a two-slot outlet.

Chief Doody also remindsparents and children to discuss the dangers of certain online challenges and trends and recognizing dangerous activity on the internet.