The Do’s and Don’ts of American Flag Etiquette

It’s great to show your pride by displaying the American flag, but to do it properly, the long list of rules to follow could have you feeling red, white and blue in the face.

Here’s a quick rundown of American flag etiquette.

The Old Farmer’s Almanac states when a flag is hung vertically, the blue section or the Union needs to be to the viewer’s left.

According to Country Living magazine, no state or city flag may be placed above or to the right – which would be the viewer’s left – of the United States flag.

America on top.

The outlet also adds when night falls, the flag needs to be lit.

More rules to follow; raise the flag briskly but lower it ceremoniously.

And the American flag should be hoisted first and lowered *last when displaying flags of two or more nations.

With that said, they need to be flown from separate staffs at the same height.

When the American flag covers a casket, the union should be at the head and over the left shoulder.

Some don’ts?

Don’t use the flag as clothing or drapery, and don’t display a raggedy, faded or torn flag, and don’t put it away unfolded.

Finally, don’t let the flag touch the ground.

Honor the stars and stripes the right way.

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