New Online 'Outlet Challenge' Is Playing With Fire: CT Officials

CONNECTICUT — Public safety departments around Connecticut are warning parents about a "dangerous new social media challenge" that could lead to fires.

The South Windsor Fire Department was one agency blasting out the warning on social media channels this week.

According to the post, it's called the TikTok "Outlet Challenge." Teens are placing a penny behind a partially inserted cell phone charger in an outlet touching the penny with the two prongs.

The action then causes a spark, according to the warning.

South Windsor fire officials said it's a "potential fire/electrical hazard to the person and the building."

"Please talk with your children. This is an extreme fire hazard," SWFD officials added.

In neighboring Vernon, fire marshal Daniel Wasilewski said he has been hesitant to send out warnings for fear of copycats.

He did say it was a bad idea.

"It's very dangerous," he said. "Just don't do it."

Several Connecticut officials said it has been more prevalent in Massachusetts but they added videos have been popping up all over social media outlets, so warnings need to be issued.

Greenwich First Selectman Fred Camillo said he has heard of no fire calls related to the challenge. A fire official in Stamford said the city has had no calls so far, but hoped publicity on it will show the true dangers of the challenge.

"I am hopeful the media can put a positive spin on it and parents will see or hear about it and hopefully guide their kids to do the right thing," Stamford fire captain P.J. Reilly said. "Electricity is nothing to play with. These crazy internet challenges put the wrong ideas in the heads of kids vulnerable for attention."