A Pennsylvania teenager is in the hospital with serious burns after allegedly trying a dangerous “fire-breathing” stunt believed to be inspired by social media.
Authorities say the incident happened Friday night in Pitcairn, a small town in Allegheny County.
According to officials, the teen was experimenting with isopropyl alcohol inside a nine-unit apartment building when the situation quickly turned dangerous.
Fire crews responded after the stunt went horribly wrong, leaving the teen with severe burns.
Pitcairn Fire Chief Tommy Dick said the challenge was extremely risky and warned others not to attempt similar stunts.
“It’s not a very smart thing for anybody to do, let alone children,” Dick said. “That product is meant for cleaning wounds and cuts, not ingesting and trying to blow fire.”
The teenager was rushed to the hospital and is now intubated while receiving treatment for burns to her face and chest. Officials say the injuries are severe and could be life-changing.
Fire officials also noted that the outcome could have been even worse.
“Luckily, in this particular case, it did not burn the building down,” Wilmerding Borough Fire Marshal Al Hussey said. “But somebody really got hurt, and is going to have life-altering injuries.”
Authorities are now warning families about the dangers of viral internet challenges that involve flammable household products.
Hussey urged parents to pay attention to what items are accessible to kids inside the home, especially chemicals and anything that can spark a flame.
“If they’re using chemicals, rubbing alcohol, or nail polish remover, parents should also be monitoring access to lighters and matches and educating their children,” Hussey said.
The incident comes amid growing concern about dangerous stunts circulating online.
In Illinois, a 9-year-old reportedly suffered third-degree burns after placing a toy inside a microwave during an online challenge. In another case, a 7-year-old attempting a similar stunt was left in a coma.
Fire officials say many viral trends involve everyday household products that can quickly become extremely dangerous when combined with heat or fire.
Authorities have not released the Pennsylvania teen’s name.
Officials say the incident should serve as a reminder for families to talk with children about the risks of copying dangerous stunts seen online.
As Chief Dick put it, “It’s not worth it.”
This social media needs to have rules to screen for the bullschitt dangerous stuff!
Chief Dick? SERIOUSLY?? What an unfortunate name. 🫣