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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 / “Choke Out” ChallengeThis behaviour 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 result in serious injury or even death.
🚨 Door Kick ChallengeThis trend involves youths kicking or damaging front doors before running away, often filming the incident to share online. ⚠️ This behaviour: Can result in criminal damageCauses distress and fear for residentsMay lead to financial consequences for parents/carersCould involve anti-social behaviour (ASB) proceedings and housing intervention
❗ Why this is concerning:Loss of oxygen to the brain can cause permanent brain damage or deathSudden collapse can lead to serious head injuriesCriminal behaviour can have long-term consequences for young peoplePeer pressure online may encourage participation without understanding the risks
👨👩👧 What parents and carers can do:Talk openly with your child about what they are seeing onlineExplain clearly that these “challenges” are dangerous, not harmless funDiscuss real-life consequences, including injury and police involvementEncourage them not to take part or share harmful contentMonitor social media use and review privacy settingsReassure your child they can speak to you if they feel pressured
🔍 Signs to watch for:Mention of “passing out games” or viral challengesUnexplained marks, dizziness, or headachesGroups gathering near homes or reports of door banging/kicking locallyIncreased secrecy around phones or social media
🚑 If you are concerned:Seek immediate medical attention if a child feels unwell or loses consciousnessReport suspicious or anti-social behaviour via 101, or 999 in an emergency
✅ Please help keep our community safe by sharing this information. Raising awareness can prevent serious harm. | 
