A disturbing new trend involving school learners in Johannesburg has raised serious health concerns after a viral video showed teens inhaling contents from a fire extinguisher.

The act, referred to as “chuffing”, has drawn a warning from the City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services after footage circulated on social media showing learners inhaling fumes from a red fire extinguisher and exhaling smoke.

City spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi said officials were deeply concerned by the video and urged parents to keep a closer watch on their children.

Fire Extinguisher Contents can be Deadly

Mulaudzi warned that fire extinguishers are made for emergencies, not inhalation.

He said breathing in dry chemical powder or carbon dioxide from extinguishers can cause severe health complications, including pneumonia, seizures and even death.

That warning puts the trend in a far more serious light. What may look like reckless behaviour for social media can quickly turn into a life-threatening medical emergency.

Officials also cautioned that fire extinguishers pose other dangers. Their high-pressure discharge can cause injuries and improperly stored extinguishers can explode.

Parents and Schools Urged to Step in

The city is now calling on parents to speak to their children about the dangers of copying viral behaviour online.

Mulaudzi said families need to educate teenagers about the real risks linked to inhaling chemicals from firefighting equipment.

Schools have also been urged to get involved. The City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services said its public education officers are available to visit schools and run life and fire safety programmes.

Safety Centres Open Across Joburg

The city said its BeSafe Centres operate across all seven regions of Johannesburg and are meant to help residents learn practical safety skills, including the correct use of fire extinguishers.

Officials encouraged communities and schools to make use of these centres to improve awareness and prevent dangerous behaviour from spreading further.

For life-threatening emergencies, residents have been advised to contact the Emergency Management Services command and control centre on 011 375 5911.

This latest incident is a sharp reminder that viral trends are not always harmless and that some can have devastating consequences.