How to Prepare Your Flagpole for High Winds

Extreme weather calls for extra care of your flag and its flagpole on high winds. Outdoor flagpoles are designed to withstand almost anything Mother Nature brings their way. But even the sturdiest pole can take damage during intense conditions, such as dangerously high winds.

With that in mind, the following tips will help ensure your standards and their display poles stay in good shape when wind speeds increase:

Take Down Your Flag

High winds put undue stress on a flag and can leave it torn and tattered. Leaving a flag on its pole during such conditions can also cause damage to the pole itself. The extra tension added by a banner being whipped in the wind may result in cosmetic or structural damage that forces you to replace the pole altogether.

If you live in an area where moderate to strong breezes are a common part of life, though, removing your flags every time the wind kicks up may not be practical. In such circumstances, it’s important to prepare your pole and flag to withstand windy weather. Specialized accessories that prevent flags from wrapping around poles will preserve and allow them to proudly fly under most conditions.

Secure the Pole and External Features

If your flagpole is housemounted, simply remove the pole and store it safely until wind speeds return to normal. Take the opportunity to make sure mounting brackets are secure as well.

Ground-staked poles present a different set of challenges. For extreme winds, consider removing the halyard when you remove the flag or tie it securely around the cleat of the flagpole with a triple fisherman’s knot. It is a traditional knot that looks tidy and will reliably prevent the rope from getting tangled by the wind.

Additionally, check that any brackets, toppers, or other accessories are securely fastened to the pole. Then, remove anything that isn’t, as loose accessories create a hazard during windy conditions.

Remove the Flagpole

If the forecast calls for extremely dangerous conditions, such as a hurricane, the best course of action is to lower your flagpole if possible. Doing so may seem extreme. But in some cases, it’s the only option to protect your pole, your property, and any people in the vicinity. Choosing a tabernacle or hinged-base flagpole makes doing so easier to accomplish.

Fly Your Standards High and Safely

Whether you enjoy displaying seasonal house banners or Old Glory herself, caring for your flag and the safety of those around you is the right thing to do. Learn more about keeping yourself and your flagpole protected by contacting Elmer’s Flag and Banner today.