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TikTok ‘outlet challenge’ causes short circuit at Penn Hills High School

PENN HILLS, Pa. — Students who were recreating a social media challenge caused a short circuit Friday morning at Penn Hills High School, officials said.

The TikTok “outlet challenge” involves partially plugging a phone charger into a wall outlet, then sliding a penny down the wall to make contact with the portion of the prongs that are exposed and create sparks.

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Officials have warned that the challenge can cause electrical damage and fires.

Firefighters were called to Penn Hills High School after Friday’s incident to check the building’s electrical system. Administrators said they would covering outlets in common areas over the weekend to prevent students from doing this again.