This July 4th holiday, Insurance Commissioner and State Fire Marshal Jim Long reminds residents that very few fireworks are legal in North Carolina -- typically only the ones considered "novelty" items.

Although the federal code regarding fireworks recently changed to include larger ground effect sparklers, North Carolina elected to keep a more conservative limit in an effort to keep citizens safer.

The only legal fireworks are devices with 200 grams or less of chemical compound per device. Examples include sparklers, fountains, glow worms, snap pops and other similar novelty devices.

"Generally speaking, any firework device that explodes, spins, flies, jumps or leaves the ground in any way is illegal in North Carolina," Long said. "Examples of illegal devices are firecrackers, ground spinners, Roman candles, bottle rockets and mortars."

Not only are fireworks illegal, but also they prove to be dangerous year after year with most injuries affecting children and teenagers, according to Long. Fireworks injuries often include permanent eye damage, serious burns and lifelong scars.

Long urges residents to use only those fireworks approved by North Carolina law, and to use caution even when using those legal products.

"The safest bet is to attend a professionally-produced fireworks show," he said. "But if you do choose to set off fireworks at your home, keep them away from children, follow the law, and stay safe."

The following safety tips will keep this July 4th from going up in smoke:

-- Young children should never play with or ignite fireworks.

-- Adults should always supervise fireworks activities.

-- Never relight or pick up fireworks that have not fully functioned.

-- Never point or throw fireworks at people or animals.

-- Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.

-- Light one item at a time, then move back quickly.