Illinois Boy, 9, Severely Burned by TikTok-Inspired Microwave Toy Accident
A 9-year-old boy from Illinois suffered severe burns after a TikTok-inspired incident involving a popular sensory toy. Caleb Chabolla attempted to heat his NeeDoh toy in the microwave on January 20. The decision was influenced by a trend he heard from a friend at school.
According to Loyola Medicine, the boy’s mother, Whitney Grubb, reported hearing a “blood-curdling scream” when the toy exploded, causing burns to Caleb’s face and hands. Grubb rushed her son to a local emergency room, where they discovered that his eye was swollen shut.
After the initial treatment, Caleb was transferred to Loyola Medicine’s Burn Center located in Maywood, a suburb of Chicago. He remained there overnight for further care but was later discharged and is now recuperating at home under his mother’s watchful eye.
TikTok Safety Concerns and Toy Warnings
Caleb Chabolla’s incident is not unique. Paula Petersen, an advanced practice nurse at the burn center, indicated that this was the fourth case of injuries related to NeeDoh toys this year alone. The rise in such accidents is linked to TikTok challenges, which can promote dangerous activities without revealing the potential risks.
Expert Insights
Kelly McElligott, a burn outreach coordinator at Loyola Medicine, emphasized the issue of children engaging in risky behavior due to social media trends. She noted, “The people who are getting hurt don’t necessarily post the TikToks. You’re just seeing the fun ones where it looks cool.”
Despite clear warnings on the toy’s packaging, many children ignore crucial safety information. Schylling, the company that produces NeeDoh toys, explicitly advises against heating, freezing, or microwaving them. McElligott mentioned that around 30% of the burn unit’s patients are children, highlighting the need for greater awareness and preventive measures.
Conclusion
Caleb’s story serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with viral trends on platforms like TikTok. Parents are urged to supervise their children’s interactions with toys and educate them about safety to prevent similar accidents.
