<P> When flown at half - mast, the flag should be first hoisted to the peak for a moment then lowered to the half - mast position . It should be raised to the peak again before it is lowered for the day . </P> <P> The flag may also be used to cover the caskets of the dead of the military, veterans of previous wars, national artists, and outstanding civilians as determined by the local government . In such cases, the flag must be placed such that the white triangle is at the head and the blue portion covers the right side of the casket . The flag should not be lowered to the grave or allowed to touch the ground, but should be solemnly folded and handed to the heirs of the deceased . </P> <P> Flags must also be raised to half - mast immediately in any area recovering from natural disasters such as a typhoon or an earthquake . </P> <P> The flag of Russia is flown at half - mast and (or) topped by black ribbon: </P>

When do you fly flags at half staff