Are You Breaking U.S. Flag Code In Idaho For 4th of July?

Hopefully you've got some big plans for 4th of July later this week as we celebrate in Idaho. Will you be grilling with family and friends? Having some beers with your buddies? Going to watch some fireworks with the kids?

However you plan on honoring America on her birthday this week, just please make sure you're not breaking the U.S. Flag Code.

Because you probably are.

The code, approved by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1942, gives us guidelines for displaying and caring of the flag.

If you're not familiar with the U.S. Flag Code that we've had in place for almost a century, here are the rules regarding wearing the flag as clothing:

• The flag should not be used as a form of clothing, bedding or drapery.
• Do not use the flag as a covering for a ceiling.
• The flag should never be used as a vessel for carrying or delivering anything.
• The flag should not be printed on paper napkins, paper plates or anything that is designed to be discarded.
• No part of the flag should be used as a costume or athletic uniform.

Are you displaying a flag on your property? Yes, there are plenty of rules for that as well:

• When the U.S. flag is hung on a wall of any kind, it should be laid flat to avoid folds in the fabric.
• When suspended over a street, the flag should be hung with the union facing north or east according to the direction of the street.
• Never display the flag with the union down unless you are signaling distress.
• When hanging the flag somewhere, do not let it touch the ground.
• If displaying the U.S. flag on a staff alongside other flags, the U.S. flag must be positioned at the top of the staff.
• No other flag may be flown above or to the right of the U.S. flag, except at the United Nations headquarters.

Now that you know the rules, are you breaking U.S. Flag Code? You don't want to disrespect America on her birthday week.

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