As a lot of people are aware, vehicle light systems are the main component in sending signals on the road. This is apparent even in ordinary vehicles that signal through the use of blinkers, flashers, and brake lights. So naturally, emergency vehicles also have their light systems that signal drivers on the road.
In general, the light systems on emergency vehicles serve as warning lights that signal motorists and drivers to clear a path for them. These are commonly used by vehicles such as fire trucks, ambulances, and police vehicles through warning lights and sirens. However, there are other types of colors and warning signals that serve different purposes. And as a motorist, it is our responsibility to understand these warning systems to know what to do.
What are the color codes for emergency lights and their meaning?
Red
Red warning lights are usually used by emergency vehicles such as ambulances, police cars, and fire trucks. Naturally, this color is used during emergency operations that need a quick response to. This is used as a signaling color for motorists and vehicles to make way and clear a path for the emergency vehicle to push through traffic smoothly.
Blue
The color blue is a color that helps drivers to identify police enforcement vehicles. However, some states, like New Mexico and Texas, permit utility vehicles to use blue lights in case of emergencies.
Yellow
The color yellow is mostly used by vehicles that are meant for construction, towing, and escorting. But overall, the use of the color is associated with vehicles and automobiles that are most likely to travel slowly.
White
Utilization of white lights varies accordingly per state. However, these lights are most commonly used by volunteers that operate a first responder emergency vehicle. Nonetheless, this type of light is used by people who are required to respond as quickly as they can in emergencies, ranging from firefighters to paramedics.
Green
Following the events that transpired during 9/11, the Homeland Security adapted the use of green lights to patrol. This means that the use of green light is only limited to this department, and are most commonly used to increase visibility during patrols and operations.
Who are eligible to use these warning light systems?
As mentioned above, warning lights are color-coded according to use and purpose. However, the main idea is that they are only limited to people who operate emergency vehicles. This refers to police officers, medical attendants, firefighters, first responders, paramedics, and volunteers. Nevertheless, these people are required only to display the specified color depending on the nature of their purpose. This is strictly imposed in order not to confuse drivers and motorists in general.
As a motorist, you are responsible to familiarize yourself with the different warning lights utilized by emergency vehicles. On the road, cooperation during emergencies is of high value. If you do not know the meaning behind the different warning lights, there is a risk of you being a hindrance to responders during an emergency.
