A dangerous social media trend known as the “Chromebook Challenge” has spread from the United States into Canadian schools, causing serious safety risks. Students are inserting items like paper clips, staples, and mechanical pencils into laptop charging ports, beneath keyboard keys, or near lithium-ion batteries with the intent to short-circuit devices, leading to smouldering, fires, and classroom disruptions.
Carol Henke, public information officer for the Calgary Fire Department, emphasized the risks, stating, “This is so incredibly dangerous. It’s not just destroying property, it’s putting people at risk.” The trend involves students recording these acts and sharing videos on platforms such as TikTok and Instagram.
Media strategist Adam Rodricks explains the motivation behind the trend, noting that young people seek attention and validation online, often influenced by peer pressure. He added, “If you have a reputation as the class clown, this is the next iteration of the prank you should be playing.”
Though the Calgary Board of Education has not reported incidents, the Calgary Catholic School District confirmed one case at a high school. The Edmonton Public School Board reported four cases, and the Edmonton Catholic School District acknowledged isolated incidents, with Edmonton Fire Rescue Services investigating at least one linked to the trend.
Henke warned about the dangers of damaged lithium-ion batteries, which can explode and emit toxic smoke. The Chromebook Challenge has caused numerous incidents in U.S. schools, including injuries and legal consequences. TikTok is actively removing related content and limiting searches connected to this challenge to curb its spread.
Rodricks believes schools are taking swift, severe actions to halt this hazardous trend immediately.
Source: Swifteradio.com
