We want to make the Plainview-Old Bethpage community aware of a dangerous trend making its way through social media, particularly TikTok.

Students have been reported inserting metal objects like paper clips, pencils, and pushpins into Chromebook charging ports to intentionally short the devices. This can cause serious damage, more importantly, it can lead to sparking, overheating, and even fire due to the lithium-ion batteries inside.

Today, the Plainview Fire Department responded to one of our schools after two Chromebooks were damaged as part of this challenge. Thankfully, no one was hurt. The devices were turned over to the Nassau County Fire Marshal’s Office and rendered safe using proper fire department procedures.

This is not a joke. It’s a real hazard that can cause injury and quickly escalate into a dangerous fire situation.

We’re asking families to talk to their kids about this trend. Please don’t participate, and help us prevent someone from getting seriously hurt.

– Chief Andrew Cohen

Plainview Fire Department