Flying the American flag in your home or office is a great way to show patriotism.
However, while flying the flag, you should adhere to all US regulations for flying the flag.
The public generally knows several set regulations concerning when and how to fly the US flag.
Among the many regulations, there are some that define the type of weather suitable for flying a US flag.
While considering the weather aspect, you may want to know….
Is It Wrong To Fly The US Flag During Inclement Weather?
The general rule is not to fly a flag during inclement weather. However, if the flag is made of material that does not absorb water or elements, you can confidently fly it in inclement weather. Notably, most flags are made of nylon, synthetic, or other non-absorbent materials. They are typically all-weather materials that any harsh weather cannot damage.
Otherwise, if you buy a flag that is not all weather, you should always bring it indoors during inclement weather. This post will cover the reasons why you should avoid flying a US flag in inclement weather, circumstances when it can be allowed, and more regulations for flying a US flag.
Why Is It Wrong To Fly A US flag In Bad Weather?
Flying a US flag in inclement weather can seem disrespectful to the nation.
As it is well known, a national flag is a symbol of national unity, and intentional disrespect to any symbol of unity is considered disrespect to the entire nation.
Generally, failing to respect the US flag can be termed a violation of law, and you will have to serve any penalties attached to such a crime.
Typically it is important to apply common sense when your sea weather changes.
Remember the authority will always inspect the condition of the flag, and in case you are found with a dirty or torn flag, you will have to defend yourself from the authorities.
Bad weather may not be a good excuse, though.
It can get damaged when you leave the national flag to fly in inclement weather.
Even if it is an all-weather flag, continuous exposure to elements will lead to damage as time goes by. For instance, the flag can get dirty, weak, and worn out.
When you compare an all-weather flag that is not exposed to bad weather and that which is exposed to bad weather, it is evident that the one not left out in bad weather will last longer.
High winds exert a lot of strain on the fibers and stitching of the flag.
This can be more destructive than a short rain or snowfall. It is therefore important to put a flag indoors when there are heavy winds.
Heavy rainfall can easily soak a flag, making it heavy on the halyard or post.
If it is a small nylon flag, it will quickly dry out in the wind, but a large flag should be lowered and placed at an ideal place to dry.
If a flag is flown in all weather and is positioned at the top of the roof, it can be covered by snow and will not be able to fly again until the snow melts.
This exposes the flag to more damage on some sides while others are left quite okay.
A flag flown more than 20 hours a day needs frequent washing and replacement compared to one flown only when the weather is favorable.
If you choose to fly your US flag in bad weather, it is important to prepare to replace the old flag with a new one frequently.
When Is It Considered Okay To Fly An American Flag In Inclement Weather?
You can fly a US flag in inclement weather only if it is an all-weather flag.
However, you should not fly a tattered flag or one that is faded and dirty.
Always lower the flag, wash it and dry it before you raise it again.
It is generally unacceptable to fly a wet or dirty flag. Significantly, flying an American flag in bad weather will make it wear out quickly.
While purchasing a flag, choosing the material you can easily take care of is essential.
Additionally, you should consider where it will be positioned.
You will position the American flag on a post in your yard; you can choose any material because of the ease of lowering it.
On the other hand, if you opt to fly the US flag on your rooftop, typically, an all-weather flag will do your best.
Fourteen US Flag Home Display Rules
While flying the glorious stripes and stars of America in your home is allowed to fly, it is of cardinal importance to respect the flag.
Here are a few basics for flying the US flag at home.
- A flag placed outside the house should be raised with respect in the morning and lowered in the evening.
- A homeowner who wishes to leave the flag flying overnight should make sure it is properly illuminated and visible from a distance during dark hours.
- Flags attached to a home should be projected horizontally at a defined angle from the front house or balcony.
- The flag should always fly upright with the union (blue field) positioned at the observer’s top left corner. The flag has to fly upside down when the county is distressed or needs help, especially during war attacks.
- Train yourself always to take in the flag during inclement weather. Even though the all-weather materials flags are designed to withstand any weather, heavy winds, extreme winters, and heavy rainfall can damage the all-weather flag.
- When the president orders that the flag be raised at half-mast, always follow the order. When doing so, raise the flag to the top and then pull it down to half the mast. In the evening, first, raise the flag to the top before you now pull it downwards with the utmost respect. If you have a fixed flag, just add a black ribbon at the top to show respect to the president’s order.
- When you want to display the US flag with other flags, ensure that the USA flag is displayed at the top above other flags or on the observer’s left side.
- Avoid adding other foreign marks, designs, and figures to the original flag.
- When lowering the flag from a post, ensure it does not touch the ground, water, the floor, or anything below it.
- Protect the flag from any substances that can damage or tear it.
- When the flag gets old or torn, dispose of it appropriately regarding the flag disposal regulations.
- If you want to move the flag from one point to another, ensure it is free but not horizontal or flat.
- Never use the flag for your home’s clothing, decorations, or beddings.
- Do not carry or store any items on the American flag inside or outside your house.
Conclusion
The American flag is designed with imprints of stripes and glorious stars to signify unity.
Having it fly in your home or office signifies patriotism and love for the nation.
However, there are regulations for flying it to show anyone viewing it that you are a true patriot.
It is important to always take your flag indoors during inclement weather, whether it is an all-weather flag or a cotton flag.
Sources
https://www.legion.org/flag/faq
