How to Take Care of a Flag

Many countries have a flag code and the United States is no exception. The United States flag code prescribes specific etiquette to assure that the American flag is treated properly and taken care of correctly. The flag code was written for civilians and civilian groups to guide them on how to honor the flag. Because the flag represents a country, it is considered a living emblem and therefore should be treated with respect. Even though there are no penalties for violating the code, it is expected that citizens will follow the code and take care of the flag properly.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Display the flag correctly. The blue union field is to be displayed up and never down unless it is used for a distress signal. When the flag is displayed on a wall, the blue union field should be to the observer's left. When displayed with other nations, the American flag should be displayed first. With other subordinate flags, it should be at the center and at the highest point. When displayed from a staff, it should be to the right of the speaker. On a pole with other flags, it should be at the top. It may be displayed on the left lapel of clothing. It can be flown from sunrise to sunset and only at night if properly illuminated.

2. Hold the flag carefully. The flag is never to touch anything beneath it. Make sure it doesn't touch the ground or floor. It is to be kept aloft and free, never carried flat or horizontally.

3. Keep the flag clean. The flag is to be kept clean and safe. Avoid situations where it can become torn, soiled, or damaged. If a flag becomes frayed, it can be trimmed and re-hemmed. Don't put the flag out if the wind exceeds 20 miles per hour or if it is raining or snowing. All-weather flags may be flown during inclement weather according to the Flag Code. If the flag becomes soiled, it can be cleaned. Nylon flags can be hand washed. Cotton and polyester flags can be dry cleaned, usually at no cost. Check with your local dry cleaner.

4. Dispose of the flag properly. When a flag becomes worn, it is to be replaced with a new flag. The old flag is to be disposed of properly, usually by burning it. Some American Legion Posts will dispose of the flag for you.

5. Respect the flag. It is never to be used for advertising and never to be embroidered on household items or clothing. It is never to be used as a costume. Unfortunately, the flag is not respected properly by some citizens and even government officials. According to U.S. History.org, at the 2008 Democratic convention, flags were thrown into the garbage. The Flag Code states that the flag must be disposed of properly. At the 2004 Super Bowl, Kid Rock wore a poncho flag and hurled it over his head. In January 2008, John McCain autographed a flag for a supporter. The Flag Code states, "The flag should never have placed upon it, nor on any part of it, nor attached to it any mark, insignia, letter, word, figure, design, picture, or drawing of any nature."

Tips & Warnings

• Flag napkins and flag paper plates are inappropriate.

• Displaying a flag horizontally before a football game is in violation of the code.

• Placing a flag patch on a sport uniform is inappropriate.

Resources

• UShistory.org
• Flag Code