Youtuber Ann Reardon of “How to Cook That,” who not only creates fantastic recipe videos (like “5-minute crafts”), but also some of the best debunking videos on YouTube, has posted a video exposing how dangerous this woodworking method is — conducting the study, acquiring knowledge, and presenting it understandably to save lives.
The unique video had gone popular on Reddit, was in the top three searches on YouTube for fractal wood burning, and received a lot of feedback from people who viewed it and stated she had very likely saved their lives.
However, YouTube had to ban it. Why?
The video context
The method of utilizing electricity to burn patterns into moist wood is known as fractal wood burning. This is because the voltage flows through and produces “lightning bolt” like patterns, and no two occurrences of burning are the same.
Dozens of YouTube videos (which we won’t link to) outline the handmade process, how to execute it, and even how to convert an obsolete microwave into a transformer needed to give power.
The issue is that it is hazardous. For example, you put a transformer into the wall, and electricity runs through it to two metal spikes placed in the wood. Holding battery jumper wires that touch the pins is a common DIY approach (or even clamping and moving the nails).
However, converting that energy raises the 120 volts from a wall connection to 2000 volts while lowering the amps.
Over the last few years, over 30 individuals have perished while trying fractal burning. This figure includes just documented instances and the true number is likely to be higher. Others have survived electrocution, although with severe and life-altering damage.
And therein is the danger: if you touch the metal spikes, damp wood, or even the surface the wood is on (if conductive), you will get enough volts to stop your heart instantaneously.
The video was banned
YouTube removed Reardon’s video, erased all the comments, and emailed her about the matter.
She claims that YouTube removed her video by posting a new video because it was risky and may cause bodily injury. However, all of the instructional videos on how to conduct this “hack” are still available.
It is a signal boost for this unique video as a criticism of YouTube’s strategy of preserving hazardous films while demonetizing or removing the ones that can genuinely help.
Fortunately, Google has overturned its judgment. However, all of the removed comments remain. What about the numerous videos on fractal wood burning and converting microwaves to make it happen? Those are still available for viewing.
Reardon and others have previously reported on deadly viral cyberattacks. Despite countless instances of severe injuries, it is still possible to locate hundreds of videos claiming that you can cook an egg in a microwave. Microwaving an egg can cause it to burst, even after you take it out. The hot yoke can spray over your face or eyes, leaving lifelong scarring.
Google’s decision
It may be tough to determine which videos to permit. Woodworking videos typically demonstrate how to use a table saw. Doing so incorrectly (or correctly!) can result in injury or death.
One of the most notable differences is that the risks of a table saw are much more apparent, and tutorials are usually quick to lay them out, along with the precautions you should always take. The dangers can be decreased by following proper procedures.
On the other hand, the fractal wood burning of patterns has repeatedly been sold as safe even though it is hazardous. The slightest mistake can quickly kill you. Some people have died while working with fractal-burning-specific equipment. The error margin is small, and the risk is high.
Google frequently cites regulations prohibiting recordings that “pose a severe danger of physical harm or death,” which is the guideline used to deny Reardon’s video.
Nonetheless, harmful viral hacks are surprisingly easy to uncover on YouTube, despite these prohibitions (and yes, TikTok and other video sites). Due to the many complaints received by YouTube, Ann Reardon’s video has just been reinstated, which will probably save many lives — but it should never have been removed in the first place. YouTube needs to act much more responsibly from the get-go.
