Plymouth North Student Shorts Outlet Mimicking Viral TikTok Video

PLYMOUTH, MA — The Plymouth Superintendent of Schools said the district is pursuing charges against students responsible for shorting an electrical outlet while mimicking a social media video challenge on Tuesday. The incident is the latest in the state where teens use a phone charger and a penny to cause sparks that officials warn can easily lead to fires.

Plymouth Superintendent Gary Maestas said there were no injuries or significant damage Tuesday when a Plymouth North student shorted the outlet mimicking the prank that has gone viral on TikTok in what Maestas called "an irresponsible act."

"This act has ignited fires in other schools in Massachusetts and other states, causing disruption of the school day and significant damages to schools," Maestas said in a statement. "We are working with the Plymouth police and fire departments to fully understand the scope of this issue and pursue charges to the fullest extent of the law."

Canton Fire Chief Charles E. Doody was one of several fire chiefs and marshals warning parents on Tuesday about the dangers of the new viral video in which teens are "challenged" to use a
penny, electric outlet and the exposed prongs of a phone charger to cause sparks. State Fire Marshal Peter Ostroskey said on Tuesday that two incidents have already taken place in Massachusetts. The challenge on TikTok involves partially inserting the prongs of the charger into the outlet and sliding the penny down the wall to the exposed prongs. The ensuing sparks can cause a fire or damage to the electrical system.

"Participating in any of these viral trends or challenges can be dangerous and have serious repercussions," Chief Doody said. "We want parents to be aware of this trend so they can help to educate their kids about the danger and prevent possible fires, electrical damage or injuries."

The evil of social media strikes again. I’m sure everyone has seen this on the news. The public and private schools in Brockton have been notified. Parents please speak with your children and make sure they realize that this is not a good idea. This could cost you a lot of money. https://t.co/EcXd1PnkUZ
— Brockton Fire (@Brockton_Fire) January 22, 2020

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