How to Properly Care for a U.S. Flag
The U.S. flag is a symbol of our country's freedom. Many men and women fought and died to protect our rights as citizens under the banner of our flag. These same men and women are laid to rest under the protection of our flag. The flag is a symbol that should be honored, respected, cared for and properly maintained.
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Instructions
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Proper U.S. Flag Use
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Raise and display a U.S. flag daily from sunrise to sunset. As flags are raised, they should be raised briskly. When lowered, they should be lowered ceremoniously with honor. Flags, when illuminated, may be flown at night. To prolong the life of a flag, do not fly it in stormy weather.
Flag etiquette calls for a flag which is displayed on a wall to have the blue field to the left, whether displayed vertically or horizontally. Other flags should not be placed above or at the same height as the U.S. flag.
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Raise a flag to half-staff on holidays and days of special order by a state's governor or the U.S. president. A special instance of a half-staff day is Memorial Day, on which the flag should remain at half-staff until noon, and should then be raised to the full height of the flag pole. To fly the flag at half-staff, first raise it to the top of the poll for a moment. In addition, when removing the flag from a half-staff position, raise it to full-staff before lowering it for the day.
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Care for the flag by not flying it in high winds and by protecting it from storms. Periodically inspect the flag for rips and tears. Repair any rips or tears at the ends of the flag before flying it again.
Clean the flag with mild soap and warm water and rinse completely. Do not leave the flag to soak in water, as the colors may run. Never roll wet flags. Rather, lay them flat to air dry.
Proper U.S. Flag Storage and Disposal
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Lower a flag at the end of the day as etiquette dictates. Fold the flag in the triangular fashion and store inside on a dry flat surface. Inspect the flag for wear. When a flag becomes worn, soiled, tattered or faded, it should be disposed of in an honorable fashion. Local VFW groups typically hold flag disposal drives and retirement ceremonies.
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Retire and dispose of a worn flag through burial. Nylon flags especially should not be burned due to the creation of hazardous gases from burning. Put a nylon flag in a plastic bag and bury the flag. Be respectful during the process.
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Retire and dispose of a worn flag in a private and discreet retirement ceremony. Fold the flag in a triangular fashion. Place the flag on a fire of adequate size, as individuals participating stand at attention, salute the flag and recite the Pledge of Allegiance. Allow for a moment of silence. Upon a complete burning of the whole flag, extinguish the fire and bury the ashes.
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Tips & Warnings
Worn and tattered flags should be laid to rest through a retirement ceremony and the installation of a new flag. The flag should remain aloft and not touch the ground.
The U.S. flag should always be shown the utmost respect. Nothing should be attached to a U.S. flag. This includes drawings, writings and any other items. The flag should not be used to carry items. Try to keep the flag out of harmful weather.
References
- Photo Credit Ryan McVay/Stockbyte/Getty Images
