Chromebook Challenge Popular Among Students Sparks Fires, Explosions

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, MD — School leaders and the state fire marshal's office are asking parents to speak with their students about a social media trend called the "Chromebook challenge" that's sparking fires and explosions by tampering with school-issued computers.

The Maryland Office of the State Fire Marshal noted that there have been multiple instances of the Chromebook challenge gone wrong.

"Students insert items such as pencils and other metallic objects into device charging ports, causing short circuits. These incidents have resulted in sparks and smoke, with some cases leading to battery ignition due to thermal runaway, prompting emergency evacuations and disciplinary actions at schools across Maryland. We want to emphasize the importance of educating students about the dangers associated with these acts," said Maryland Acting State Fire Marshal Jason Mowbray. "It is crucial that parents and educators work together to promote a culture of safety and responsibility regarding electronic devices."