‘Chromebook Challenge’ on TikTok raises safety concerns

A viral TikTok trend is raising alarms in Green Country, as students are seen damaging school-issued Chromebooks in what’s being called the "Chromebook Challenge."

💻 What Is the Chromebook Challenge?

The challenge encourages students to jam small objects like paper clips or mechanical pencils into the USB ports of their Chromebooks. This seemingly minor action can cause the lithium-ion battery inside to short-circuit.

Andy Little, Tulsa Fire Department:

“It can cause fires, it can release toxic gases... it can be very dangerous, and it's something we're very concerned about.”

🏫 Schools Send Warnings to Parents

Districts like Jenks and Owasso sent letters to parents last week warning them about the challenge. They reminded families that Chromebooks are school property, and if one is damaged, parents may be responsible for the cost.

Jordan Korphage, Owasso Public Schools:

“Our 6th through 12th graders take those Chromebooks home. So it’s something they could also be participating in at home and potentially causing a safety hazard there as well.”

🚒 The Real Risk: Fires and Toxic Gas

Even without external damage, lithium-ion batteries can sometimes spontaneously combust. When tampered with intentionally, like in this challenge, the odds go up significantly.

Andy Little:

“These fires can spread fast, release toxic gases, and in the worst cases, cause evacuations or even result in criminal charges.”

While no Chromebook Challenge-related fires have occurred in Tulsa so far, fire officials say they’ve dealt with similar battery fires, and it’s only a matter of time if the trend continues.

🎓 It’s About Education, Not Punishment

School leaders say their goal isn’t to scare students but to educate them — and their families — about how serious this trend could become.

School officials emphasize they want students to understand the real dangers of the challenge, not just the consequences.

⚠️ National Impact Already Seen

Across the country, some schools have had to evacuate buildings after smoke was detected from Chromebook batteries damaged in this way. Tulsa officials say they’re hoping to avoid that here, but it all starts with awareness and prevention.

📢 Parents: Talk to Your Kids

Both firefighters and school administrators are asking parents to talk to their children about the dangers of participating in viral trends that involve tampering with electronics.

This trend isn’t just a prank — it could result in fires, injuries, and even criminal charges.