Students deliberately short-circuiting school laptops as part of social media trend

DENVER (KDVR) — School district officials are warning students against a social media trend directing them to short-circuit their school-issued laptops after multiple fires were reported in recent weeks.

Officials say it's all part of a social media trend where videos show students how to short-circuit their laptop or puncture the lithium batteries. The short-circuit or puncture causes the battery's temperature to rise uncontrollably, which can lead to a fire or explosion. It also releases toxic fumes.

On Wednesday, the Boulder Valley School District in Colorado said there were three reports of such incidents at its schools: One at Eldorado PK-8 and two at Broomfield High School. Three other incidents occurred May 2-6 at Centaurus High School, Broomfield Heights Middle School and Angevine Middle School.

The district sent an email to families asking them to discuss the incidents together.

"It is all of our responsibility to take care of each other and school property on a daily basis," the email stated. "That is why we encourage families to have a conversation with students about using social media responsibly and the potential consequences of engaging in this type of behavior."

The district noted that not only are the battery fires dangerous and could cause injury or property damage, but that students who damage their laptops are violating the Student Code of Conduct and the law, "potentially leading to school discipline and criminal prosecution."

"Our hope is that by speaking to students in advance, we can ensure everyone can enjoy the last weeks before summer break and help students avoid situations that can have large repercussions," the district's email stated.

The Boulder Valley School District is far from alone. Administrators of the Adams 12 Five Star Schools district, about an hour east of Denver, also sent an email to families with a similar message in recent days. Warnings have also been sent to parents in Connecticut and Pennsylvania about the potential dangers of the "trend."

It even led to the Connecticut State Fire Marshal and State Fire Administrator issuing a warning.

"Social media trends, many that include risky behavior, are sadly on the increase. Students and parents must be aware of this latest trend involving laptops and other personal electronic devices that have the potential to cause serious injury, death, and/or property damage," said Connecticut State Fire Administrator Jeff Morrissette.

One school in Pennsylvania posted a message on its website telling families that each of its Chromebooks costs $350, and the cost will be billed to the students and their families if the student chooses to participate in the trend.

"We are asking for your support in speaking with your child about the very real dangers of this behavior, as well as reinforcing the importance of treating school-issued devices with care," the superintendent said.