COLUMBUS, Ohio – This has many people shaking their heads and others wondering if there isn’t an urban legend behind it, but the State Fire Marshal has issued a warning to Ohioans not to take part in the “fire challenge” in which people douse themselves with flammable liquid, set themselves on fire, then challenge others to follow their example.
The challenge has spread via social media where the person who sets themselves ablaze nominates other friends to take part in the challenge, said State Fire Marshal Larry Flowers.
“Fire is not something to be played with. The ‘fire challenge’ is not only extremely dangerous for the people involved, but it could also be a danger to other people or structures around you,” Flowers said.
The risks include first, second and third degree burns or even death, Flowers said.
The release from Flowers’ office did not indicate that there had been any reported incidents in Ohio.
He says many of the participants in the challenge are teenagers so he urges parents to talk with their children about the consequences of setting themselves on fire.
“Sit down with your kids and let them know this isn’t a safe game. We need to make sure our children understand how dangerous this challenge actually is,” Flowers said.
Flowers encourages anyone who knows of someone who has taken part in the fire challenge to contact their local law enforcement agency.