A man in southern China had to be rescued by emergency services after attempting a viral “zip tie escape” challenge at home went dangerously wrong.
The incident took place in Guangzhou, located in Guangdong province, where the man reportedly tried to recreate a popular online trend that involves people tying themselves up and attempting to break free.
Viral trend turns risky
The “zip tie escape challenge” has been circulating online, with participants binding their wrists and ankles using zip ties and trying to escape on their own. Some even go as far as covering their mouths or calling delivery drivers in advance to help free them afterward.
However, in this case, things quickly spiraled out of control.
The man reportedly took the challenge to an extreme level. He first wrapped himself in a heavy cotton blanket, then secured himself inside a fishing net, before finally tying multiple zip ties around his body—from his neck down to his ankles—leaving him completely immobilized.
Rescue after cries for help
Unable to move or free himself, the man began calling out for help. Fortunately, a delivery driver passing by heard his cries and alerted the police.
Firefighters were quickly dispatched to the scene. After arriving, they had to force open the gate to gain access to the home. Inside, they found the man lying helplessly on a bed, tightly bound and unable to escape.
He was eventually freed by the rescue team without reported injuries.
A close call
According to firefighter Liu Junjie, the man had restrained himself as part of the viral challenge. However, the situation could have ended much worse.
Two zip ties had reportedly been fastened around his neck, which posed a serious risk. Authorities warned that if the rescue had been delayed or if the man had struggled further, the outcome could have been fatal.
The case was later shared by local fire authorities to raise awareness about the dangers of participating in risky online challenges without proper safety measures.
Internet reacts
As news of the incident spread online, many people expressed shock at how far the man went to attempt the challenge.
Some questioned how he managed to tie himself up so tightly, while others pointed out how such situations could easily be mistaken for something far more serious.
The incident has also sparked broader discussions about viral trends that encourage risky or dangerous behavior, with many urging people to think twice before attempting them.
