For Immediate Release:	Contact:
June 28, 2007	Chrissy Pearson
	Kristin Milam
	(919) 733-5238
Keep Your July 4th from Going Up in Smoke
Insurance Commissioner, State Fire Marshal Jim Long Urges Safe Use of Fireworks
RALEIGH -- This July 4th Insurance Commissioner Jim Long hopes that citizens across North Carolina will opt for flames on the grill rather than fireworks shooting across the sky. Especially since, as Commissioner Long reminds, very few fireworks are legal in North Carolina.
"Generally speaking, any firework device that explodes, spins, flies, jumps or leaves the ground in any way is illegal in North Carolina," explains Long who also serves as the State Fire Marshal. "Firecrackers, ground spinners, roman candles, bottle rockets and mortars - these are all illegal. That means you can't buy them in North Carolina and you can't use them either. If you buy fireworks in South Carolina and bring them home, you're breaking the law."
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. "Other states allow all kinds of fireworks, but in North Carolina, our citizens' safety is top priority," Long says. Fireworks injuries often include permanent eye damage, serious burns and lifelong scars.
Commissioner Long urges citizens 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," Commissioner Long advises. "But if you do choose to set off legal 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 re-light 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 Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them in metal or glass containers
-- OSFM --