devastating news
For the most part, TikTok is all about dancing and following trends, which on paper seems harmless enough.
Unfortunately, trends can sometimes turn dangerous, putting users at risk of injury or even death in extreme cases.
An 11-year-old boy died over the weekend after participating in TikTok's “Chrome Challenge” trend.
The family of Tommy Lee Gracie Billington confirmed the heartbreaking news on Saturday, saying their loved one suffered a suspected cardiac arrest after taking part in the “challenge.”
Paramedics found the little boy unresponsive at a friend's home around midnight on Saturday and was taken to hospital where he was pronounced dead.
What is chrome plating?
“Chromium plating” refers to the act of sniffing chromium-based paint.
However, according to the National Retail Association, it is now a broader term used to describe the intentional inhalation of toxic chemicals such as solvents, aerosol cans, paints and glues, also known as “breathing” or “sniffing” .
Inhaling these chemicals affects the central nervous system, causing brain activity to slow down, resulting in a brief “high.”
It may also cause vague hallucinations, nausea, speech, disorientation, dizziness, and/or vomiting.
“Chrome plating” can also have more dire consequences, such as heart attacks, seizures, suffocation or coma.
“We want TikTok to be taken down”
His heartbroken grandmother Tina Burns spoke out after her grandson's death, saying he died immediately after being “chromed” and that the hospital did everything they could to revive Tommy.
She also called for new rules on social media
“In fact, we want TikTok taken down and children under 16 not allowed to use any social media,” Tina told the Lancashire Post.
“It's devastating for all of us but we hope to help save other children's lives and create awareness among families to keep their children safe.”
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