State Fire Marshal shares safety warning on viral ‘Chromebook Challenge’

WARWICK, R.I. (WLNE) — The Office of the State Fire Marshal said it is issuing a safety warning regarding the viral TikTok “Chromebook Challenge” trend.

According to a spokesperson for the office, the social media trend involves inserting metal objects or wires into a Chromebook’s charging or USB ports, which results in the battery to overheat, emit smoke, and short-circuit. In severe cases, the Chromebook will release toxic gases and projectiles, and even cause fires and injuries.

The office cited a recent incident in Cranston, in which multiple students attempted the challenge. Nobody was injured.

This also comes after two students and a teacher were taken to the hospital after a school Chromebook was tampered with at DelSesto Middle School in Providence.

The State Fire Marshal added that partaking in this challenge can result in criminal charges, such as first-degree and fourth-degree arson.

“The ‘Chromebook Challenge’ is not a harmless prank, it is a dangerous act that puts public safety at risk,” State Fire Marshal Timothy McLaughlin said. “Parents, teachers, and school officials should make students aware of the dangers and consequences associated with trends like this.”