How to Light and Display a Flag
There are many good reasons to display an American flag. It might be Veterans’ Day, the Fourth of July or another patriotic holiday. Maybe you feel that flying the flag serves as a constant reminder of patriotism and respect, and you want to share those feelings every day.
Whatever your reasons for displaying the flag, make sure you’re doing so correctly. And if you want to illuminate your flag at night, you need to make sure you’re also doing that in the right way. Whether you’re flying it near your home or your business, keep the following guidelines in mind to ensure you’re following the Flag Code.
Off the Ground
The flag should never be allowed to touch the ground. The idea behind that rule is the idea that you should avoid getting soil or dirt on it. Despite common belief, you don’t have to destroy a flag that’s been dropped on the ground. It’s perfectly fine to wash or dry-clean it.
Bad Weather
You aren’t supposed to fly the flag in bad weather, which could mean a torn or dirty flag. Luckily, most flags you buy for outdoor display are made of all-weather material and can withstand some rain or snow. But on a really rough day, it’s best to bring the flag inside.
Solemn Occasions
Flags are often flown at half-mast to indicate mourning for the death of a high-ranking politician or service member, or to commemorate specific days in history. According to the American Legion, only the president or a state governor–not individuals–can order flags to fly to half-mast.
Flags at Night
Traditionally, the flag was only supposed to hang from sunrise to sunset. Modern electricity has changed that view, and in any case, it was seeing “proof through the night/That our flag was still there” that inspired Francis Scott Key to write our national anthem. Now the Flag Code states that it’s fine to keep a flag hanging in the darkness as long as it’s “properly illuminated.”
What’s proper illumination? We’re glad you asked.
- A spotlight specifically trained on the flag is considered the best method.
- Surrounding lights that make the flag visible are also acceptable.
- Ambient lighting on a porch or window will work for a flag mounted on the house.
The Right Lights, the Right Way
At SESCOS, we share your love of our country and reverence for our flag. That’s why we would consider it an honor to share some creative, attractive ways to illuminate your flagpole and show your patriotic colors day and night.
- Use uplighting to make your flag shine out in the darkness.
- LED lights will last through any weather and you won’t have to worry about replacing them.
- Consider colored LED lights for an eye-catching, patriotic display.
- An unobtrusive circle of lights can surround the spot where your flagpole is installed, for a more subtle approach.
- If your flag is mounted to your house, we can install lights to shine from the roof or porch.
There are many options, depending on the size of your flag, the layout of your yard and the effect that you’re trying to create.
Safety Tips
Whenever you mix electricity and the outdoors, safety is a big concern. The National Electrical Code has a long list of requirements for outdoor lighting and wiring. Among them:
- You need GFCI protection for all outdoor receptacles.
- Light fixtures must be listed specifically as wetness-resistant.
- Outdoor electrical boxes must be weatherproof.
Your best bet? Call SESCOS and have one of our experienced, licensed electricians handle the wiring and installation for you. You’ll stay safe as we get your flag and flagpole brightly lit in a way that will keep your patriotic spirit shining all through the night.