What Does It Mean When the US Flag Is Upside Down
Flying the US flag upside down is a recognized distress signal. It indicates extreme danger to life or property and is a call for immediate assistance.
When Is It Permitted to Hang the Flag Inverted
The Flag Code allows the flag to be displayed upside down only as a signal of dire distress. Routine or decorative use is not permitted, and intentional misuse can be seen as disrespectful.
Proper Display and Additional Guidance
When displayed normally, the union should be at the peak unless the flag is at half-staff or inverted for distress. For official guidance, refer to the U.S. Flag Code at https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CFR-2020-title4-vol1/html/4.htm.
