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We are urging parents and carers to be aware of dangerous social media trends currently circulating among young people, including the “tap out challenge” and the “door kick challenge.” 🚨 Tap Out Challenge / Choke out Challenge
This involves children or young people deliberately restricting their breathing or applying pressure to the neck to briefly lose consciousness.
This is extremely dangerous and can lead to serious injury or even death. 🚨 Door Kick Challenge
This involves youths kicking or damaging front doors and then running away, often filming the incident to share online.
This behaviour can cause criminal Damage, can cause distress to residents, and may lead to parents paying for damages, ASB contracts and housing being contacted. ❗ Why this is concerning:Loss of oxygen to the brain can cause permanent brain damage or deathSudden collapse can lead to serious head injuriesCriminal damage and anti-social behaviour can have long-term consequences for young peopleOnline pressure can encourage children to take part without understanding the risks 👨👩👧 What parents and carers can do:Talk openly with your child about what they are seeing onlineMake them aware that these “challenges” are dangerous and not harmless funExplain the real-life consequences, including injury and police involvementEncourage them to never take part or share harmful contentMonitor social media use and check privacy settingsReassure your child they can come to you if they feel pressured 🔍 Signs to watch for:Talking about “passing out games” or viral challengesUnexplained marks, dizziness, or headachesGroups gathering around homes or reports of door banging/kicking locallyIncreased secrecy around phone or social media use 🚑 If you are concerned:Seek immediate medical help if a child feels unwell or has lost consciousnessReport suspicious or anti-social behaviour via 101, or 999 in an emergency Please help keep our community safe by sharing this information with other parents and carers. Raising awareness can prevent serious harm. | 
