Recently, a strange trend has been circulating on TikTok. Students at various schools have been sticking metal objects into their Chromebooks’ USB ports, causing them to spark and release smoke. In some situations, the device has even caught fire.
You may have even seen someone putting items such as paperclips, pencil leads, or other metallic objects into their Chromebook. The popularity of the trend poses a risk to the safety of students and teachers alike. Some schools have addressed the growing issue due to multiple incidents and fires that have occurred. One school district stated:
“Any student caught participating in this behavior on school property will face disciplinary action following the school’s code of conduct. In addition, students and their families will be held financially responsible for the cost of repairing or replacing any damaged school-issued devices.”
This trend damages or destroys Chromebooks because metal gets stuck in the USB port, causing it to short-circuit. Various metal pins inside the Chromebook spark when the object is inserted. In minor situations, the device will begin to release smoke, and you may see some sparks. But it can easily get out of control. In some cases, the device will catch fire or explode.
Even at West, middle schoolers have been catching onto the trend. In one of my classes, Someone has attempted the Chromebook challenge. Luckily, no one was hurt and no fires were started. There are still many risks, though, such as toxic chemicals from the lithium battery being released into the classroom, or being electrocuted by the Chromebook.
So, what’s the lesson from this situation? Think before you act. No, it’s not okay to set a Chromebook on fire because someone went viral on TikTok by doing it. Some trends shouldn’t be followed, and this is a prime example.
