NORTH SMITHFIELD, R.I. (WPRI) — The Rhode Island State Fire Marshal's Office is warning about a dangerous social media "challenge" where people set themselves on fire and then jump into water.

The warning comes after an incident in North Smithfield where an 18-year-old ended up with severe burns.

"Fire is not a joke and should only be handled by professionals. This type of social media content is dangerous, reckless and puts lives in danger," State Fire Marshal Timothy McLaughlin said.

North Smithfield Fire Chief David Chartier told 12 News officers responded to Slatersville Reservoir earlier this month for a person with serious burns.

When they arrived, they found a 16-year-old and an 18-year-old who said they were doing the TikTok challenge.

The 16-year-old boy was not injured, acco

See Full Page