Police in Alameda are warning parents and residents about a social media trend they say is spreading locally and could put young people in danger.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Alameda Police Department said the trend, known online as the “door kick challenge,” involves youths forcefully kicking or banging on front doors and then running away.
Over the past year, officers have responded to nearly two dozen reports of groups banging on residential doors, police said. Most of the cases happened late at night, between 8 p.m. and 2 a.m. In some cases, those involved were wearing face coverings, adding to the fear and confusion of homeowners who did not know their intentions.
Police said what some may see as a prank can have serious consequences. In other communities, similar cases have ended badly when participants were mistaken for intruders and confronted by homeowners.
They urged parents and guardians to talk with their children about the risks, including possible legal trouble, property damage and dangerous encounters.
“We want people to understand this is not harmless fun,” said the department, which added that community awareness and family conversations are key to keeping Alameda safe.