A tragic incident involving a 13-year-old girl has raised serious concerns regarding the dangers of social media challenges. Tiegan Jarman, from Thurmaston, Leicestershire, died on March 6, 2023, after attempting a viral activity known as “chroming.” This hazardous practice involves inhaling vapours from common household products to experience a brief high. Tiegan was found unresponsive in her bedroom, and despite the efforts of emergency services, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
The family of Tiegan has expressed their devastation over her unexpected passing, which they attribute to the influence of social media. Her stepfather, Rob Hopkin, noted that there was uncertainty regarding whether Tiegan had previously engaged in chroming. He confirmed that she had used at least one can of deodorant during the incident. “It has been devastating for the whole family, and our lives will never be the same again,” he stated.
Family’s Heartfelt Remembrance and Advocacy
Tiegan was staying with her father, Paul Jarman, at the time of her death. He described her as “the most loving, daring girl ever,” highlighting her warmth and sense of humor. “My life was twisted upside down when she died, and I have to keep strong and carry on,” he reflected. The family is now determined to raise awareness about the dangers associated with social media and its influence on young people.
Rob Hopkin articulated the family’s frustrations regarding social media platforms, stating, “It’s hard to feel angry in a strange way because it’s not one individual that has caused this.” He called for social media companies to take stronger measures in regulating content that could lead to dangerous trends. “They seem to be able to control certain things like pornography, but do not seem that bothered about the trends that can kill instantly,” he added.
Tiegan was one of four siblings, including Brogan, 24, Callum, 17, and Alisha, 18. In response to her death, Alisha has initiated an online petition, aiming to raise awareness about the risks of social media trends and advocate for educational reforms. The petition, titled “Enforce warnings on solvent products and educate on risks,” is hosted on Change.org and seeks to ensure that household products carry more prominent warning labels regarding potential misuse.
Petition Aims for Change in Education and Product Warnings
Rob detailed their objectives for the petition, emphasizing the need for visible warnings on solvent products. He stated, “What we all want from the petition Alisha set up is for the warnings on solvents to be more visible and for it to become the law on deodorant cans to warn specifically about the danger of inhaling.” Additionally, he expressed a desire for educational institutions to incorporate discussions on social media dangers, including not only chroming but other hazardous challenges like the blackout challenge.
As of now, the petition has garnered 1,232 signatures, reflecting a growing concern among the public regarding the impact of social media on youth. The Jarman family’s efforts underscore the urgent need for change in how both social media platforms and educational systems address these perilous trends.
The tragic loss of Tiegan Jarman serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that can arise from social media challenges. Her family’s commitment to advocacy aims to ensure that no other family has to endure such a heartbreaking experience.
