The EVERYTHING Guide to Flags

The EVERYTHING Guide to Flags

The summer is filled with patriotism and many reasons to let your flags fly high and flutter in the wind. So, follow these quick and easy tips to extend the life of your flags, plus a reminder on when to fly your American flags at half-staff.

First, keep your advertising flags in top shape and looking brand new by doing the following: 

1. Bring your flag indoors if you are experiencing inclement weather. Your flag is intended for outdoor use, however, to prevent rips, snags, and tears avoid heavy winds and rains
2. When not in use, fold your flags and store them on a flat surface to prevent wrinkles.
3. Hand wash your flag in cold water with mild soap to eliminate stains. If you have a multicolored flag, quickly wash and remove from water to prevent the colors from bleeding. 
   
4. Wrinkles will relax once your flag is unpacked and hung. Do not apply heat to your flag (iron, dryer, or otherwise) as this may cause damage. 
   
5. If you live in a coastal area, consider purchasing one of our rust-resistant aluminum poles for your American flag. 
   

It can be tricky trying to determine when to lower your American flag. One thing to note is that when the American flag is flown at half-staff, state and local flags should follow suit until the American flag is returned to full-staff. However, this guideline is not mandatory for private citizens operating nonfederal facilities.

The following days have been designated as national days of remembrance, and thus half-staff flag days.

1. Peace Officers Memorial Day-MAY (the exact date varies by year, but occurs annually during National Police Week)
2. Memorial Day-MAY (observed on the last Monday in May)
3. Patriot Day SEPTEMBER 11
4. National Firefighters Memorial Day-OCTOBER (the exact date varies by year, but occurs annually during National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend)
5. Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day- DECEMBER 7