The Smoking Chromebook Trend That Could Be Heading for Michigan

UPDATE:  Townsquare Media has received reports that incidents similar to those described below have occurred at two schools in the Flushing Community School District. These reports, however, are unconfirmed at this time.

It’s a bizarre new trend that’s already making waves in schools on the East Coast, and it could be heading for Michigan next. Reports are emerging of Chromebooks suddenly smoking and sparking in classrooms, and the surprising cause has some parents and teachers on high alert.

Thanks in part to social media (looking at you, TikTok), dangerous challenges seem to spread like wildfire, especially among kids and teens.

Remember the Tide Pod Challenge – where biting into laundry pods somehow became a badge of honor, despite the very real risk of chemical burns and poisoning? Or the Skull Breaker Challenge, where unsuspecting kids ended up with concussions for the sake of a laugh? And, of course, there was the Cinnamon Challenge, where choking on a mouthful of dry spice became a twisted rite of passage.

The Chromebook Smoke Challenge

A dangerous trend that's already hit schools in Connecticut and New York has school officials across the country on high alert. Some students have discovered that sticking metal objects into their Chromebook or laptop charging ports can cause them to short out and start smoking. Students are recording themselves as their devices go up in smoke and posting the videos on social media.

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It’s a risky stunt that's leaving parents and teachers on edge – and frankly, making the rest of us scratch our heads.

High Schools Evacuated After Dangerous Chromebook Challenge

Students at a Newington, Connecticut high school were evacuated earlier this week after a student intentionally made a Chromebook smoke. The Newington Fire Marshal said the short caused the device's battery to catch fire, producing toxic smoke.

Similar incidents have been reported at high schools in Derby and Cromwell, both in Connecticut.

Online Challenges Spread Like Wildfire

While no incidents have been reported in Michigan yet, it’s important to stay ahead of potentially dangerous trends like this. As we've seen with past viral challenges, these things tend to spread quickly, and it’s crucial for parents to talk to their kids about the risks.

Experts warn that even seemingly harmless stunts can lead to serious injuries or property damage. According to HealthyChildren.org, social media challenges often encourage risky behavior, and parents should be proactive in helping their kids think critically about what they see online.