Tiruvallur: A 15-year-old Class XI student in Tiruvallur near Chennai died after being electrocuted while sleeping near a laptop that was plugged in for charging, according to a report by The Times of India. The incident has drawn attention to the potential risks associated with damaged electrical wires, chargers and electronic devices kept close to sleeping areas.
Tragedy strikes while student was asleep
The boy was reportedly sleeping near the charging laptop when he came into contact with an electrical wire, resulting in the fatal electric shock. The precise circumstances surrounding the incident are being investigated, and it has not yet been established whether a fault in the laptop, charger, wiring or electrical connection contributed to the accident.
The tragedy has left the family and local community deeply shocked, particularly because the incident occurred during an ordinary household activity.
Electrical safety needs greater attention
The incident is also a reminder for families to regularly inspect electrical cords, chargers, extension boards and power sockets for damage or loose connections.
Electronic devices should ideally be charged on stable, hard surfaces and kept away from bedding and other materials that can create additional risks. Damaged chargers or cables should not be used, while overloaded sockets and makeshift electrical connections should be avoided.
A reminder for young gadget users
With laptops, phones and other electronic devices becoming part of everyday student life, children and teenagers often keep devices close to their beds while studying, watching videos or charging them overnight.
Families can help reduce electrical risks by ensuring that charging equipment is of good quality, connections are secure and damaged cables are replaced promptly.
The tragic incident underscores a simple but important message: electrical safety should never be taken for granted, even during routine activities at home.