Ontarians Are Being Warned A Popular TikTok Challenge Could Actually Kill You

Now, this is a serious reminder not to endanger yourself and others for the sake of viral clout. Ontarians are being warned that the popular TikTok penny challenge could have some really bad consequences and even lead to death. The Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) is asking the public not to take part or even share this challenge due to its severity and the dangers behind it.

In a news release, the ESA warns the trend could lead to electrical fires which can cause serious damage and risk injury or death.

"While no known injuries have been reported so far, the popularity of this challenge and the serious risk posed by the actions in these videos are very concerning," says Dr. Joel Moody, Chief Public Safety Officer at the Authority.

"Electricity is unforgiving, and no family should have to endure the pain of losing a loved one or their home because of a social media trend."

If you're not familiar with this challenge, you're about to be.

The general idea is that you plug in your phone charger or other electrical item and leave enough space so that it's not fully plugged into the socket.

Then, for some reason, you choose to grab a penny (other coins are available) and rub it right on the metal or drop it in the crack between the wall and the plug.

As anyone might guess, that creates sparks. Sometimes, as shown below, a great deal of them. 

And, if you're still holding onto the penny, it can lead to electrocution.

The challenge has already blown up in the U.S. after several incidents, one in a Massachusetts home.

Another saw a student from Westford Academy charged for starting a fire, according to an advisory from the Massachusetts fire department.

Meanwhile, on Tuesday, two pupils at another school in that state were caught after filming themselves attempt the stunt and scorch two outlets in the process.

The officials are warning others of the dangers behind the TikTok trend.

"Every year in Ontario, 110 kids under 15 go to the hospital because of a preventable electrical injury," adds the release by the Electrical Safety Authority in Ontario.

"ESA is an administrative authority acting on behalf of the Government of Ontario to ensure that Ontarians can continue to live, work and play free from electrical harm."

Although this is something we're all taught in school, a refresher on how electricity works and its dangers seems like it could be beneficial for some.

The ESA linked to an electrical safety website that also helps parents teach their kids about shocks and how to prevent them.

The TikTok challenge might sound really dumb, and that's because it is. Putting your life in the balance for a laugh on social media is never a smart idea.