A 9-year-old boy suffered burns across more than 70% of his body after taking part in the dangerous “fire challenge,” a viral social media stunt, officials said.
The child, whose identity has not been released, is in “unbearable pain” and “lucky to be alive,” New Orleans Fire Department Chief Roman Nelson said in a video message urging families to take the trend seriously. Participants typically set themselves on fire while attempting to extinguish the flames as quickly as possible.
“It’s very dangerous. It is not fun, and it is not funny,” New Orleans Police Department Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick said in the warning, which she delivered alongside Nelson.
Nelson encouraged parents to speak openly with their children about the potentially deadly consequences of the fire challenge and other extreme behavior promoted online.
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“Kids, don’t fall for this gimmick and don’t feel peer pressure to take part in it. Your life is not worth it,” Kirkpatrick said.
According to the National Library of Medicine, the fire challenge involves covering the body with a flammable household substance, such as isopropyl alcohol or acetone, igniting it and trying to put out the flames before severe burns occur.
The New Orleans Fire Department did not immediately respond to The Post’s request for additional comment.
