Swedish Authorities Warn of Dangerous TikTok Electrical Outlet Challenge Affecting Children

A hazardous trend originating on TikTok, where children are encouraged to insert metal objects into electrical outlets, has prompted warnings from Swedish authorities. This challenge aims to cause electrical power outages but poses significant risks, including electric shock and fire hazard. The Electrical Safety Authority (Elsäkerhetsverket) has issued a stern warning highlighting that manipulating electrical outlets can be life-threatening, especially if safety devices like circuit breakers fail to trip.

Incidents linked to this trend have been reported in several Swedish municipalities such as Ludvika and Värnamo. Police investigations uncovered metal objects inserted into outlets at multiple schools, with at least one case causing a power outage. Police officer Jonas Bergman confirmed the trend's connection to TikTok, stating that the challenge is confirmed as a new social media phenomenon.

Per Samuelsson from the Electrical Safety Authority emphasized the dangers: "if the outlets become live and the circuit breaker does not trip, there is also a risk of fire." Authorities are advising parents to proactively discuss these risks with their children to prevent further incidents.

The growing popularity of this TikTok challenge underscores the need for increased awareness around electrical safety and vigilance within communities and households to protect children from potentially fatal consequences.