The U.S. Government expects a nylon or cotton bunting flag to last about 90 days. We’ll assume that’s a running national average. But did they figure that number to include the average wind damage in Wyoming?

Flags just last 90 days? I thought it was a lot longer than that. But yes, that’s the average flag life expectancy in the nation.

If you are a flag flyer, maybe you aren’t so surprised by this. You likely already know how often they have to be replaced. Imagine the expense it costs to fly the U.S. flags and the great bison flag of Wyoming added on.

(If my personal surprise of flag durability makes it obvious I’ve never been a flag flyer, I should say I’m as patriotic as anybody. I’m just a little lazy.)

FlagAndBanner.com says reminds us that flag durability varies. Add it's “an impossible question to answer accurately. It is like predicting the weather.” Well, do you predict flag life in Wyoming is always going to get beat to death sooner?

Here are some things that may help:

… Don't fly the flag in the rain or snow. Moisture and storms put a strain on the flag.

… Let the flag dry before storing. Not doing that causes mildew – a flag killer.

… Fly near obstacles like trees or phone lines. That also weakens a flag.

… The government also recommends flying only sunrise to sunset. 24/7 shortens the life span even more.

Emblem.legion.org advertises, “Our flags meet or exceed the federal standard of 90 days of use – except in Wyoming.”  I’m just kidding. They do not say “except in Wyoming,” but do you think maybe they should?

Maybe you just try to fly our flag on patriotic holidays. Either way, we wish you a great celebration of our country’s birth.

Those flags really are good to see in Wyoming, where they wave proudly in the wind like nowhere else.

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