A Simple Guide on the Rules for Flying the American Flag at Home
“Oh, say can you see?”
As Americans, we have a proud history of freedom and opportunity. The American flag represents different things to different people. For some it means strength, for others, it indicates a legacy of hope. For all, it represents life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness — something we can all get on board with.
If you want to fly her colors proudly over your home, do it! But be sure to check out these rules for flying the American flag at home to ensure that you are doing so in a respectful and proper way.
Let a Light Shine
You can fly your flag 24-hours a day as long as you put a spotlight on it. If you don’t have a light, you can fly your flag from sunrise to sunset. This is to represent that the light will never go out on this great country.
Up Fast, Down Slow
If you’re opting for the sunrise to sunset schedule, know that in the morning it can be quick. Raise the flag “briskly” to her prominent position. In the evening, however, the flag should be lowered “ceremoniously” according to the U.S. Flag Code. Bring a jacket if it’s cold.
Above All Others
You are welcome to fly your American flag with other flags as well. Just remember that she deserves the highest point. If the flags will share a flagpole, the American flag goes up first and the others can be lined up below.
Check out these flagpoles for sale if you need multiple poles to display multiple flags. Of course, the American flag should be flown higher than any surrounding flags.
Flying the Right Way
Wondering how to display the American flag correctly? The blue field should always go toward the top of the flagpole. So if the flag is vertical the blue field is in the upper lefthand corner. If the flag is horizontal, the blue field goes out toward the end of the flagpole.
Wondering how to hang a flag on a house? When hanging the flag against a wall the blue field should be at the top and to the flag’s right.
The only time a flag should ever be displayed upside down is to signify great distress.
Respect the Flag
The American flag represents a long legacy of proud people who fought and died to defend our country and make it what it is today. Always treat it with respect.
Never put it on the ground, use it as part of a costume, use it as bedding or to carry things, or use it in advertising. Don’t drape your flag over a vehicle or deface it by placing any marks, insignia, pictures, drawings, or anything else over it.
Follow These Simple Rules for Flying the American Flag at Home
You’ve always known that you should be respectful of the American flag, but maybe you didn’t know the rules for flying the American flag at home. There are a few more things to be aware of, but this is a good overview of flag etiquette at home. For more information, you can check out the Flag Code we mentioned earlier.
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