Why Are Fire Engines Red? The Real History Behind the Colour and Why EMFS Chose a Different Direction
- EMFS Group
- Nov 19
- 3 min read
If you search “why are fire engines red”, you will find a mix of myths, half-truths and outdated explanations. The real story is far more interesting. And at EMFS Group, understanding where traditions come from is central to understanding when it is the right time to move beyond them.
Before we look at how EMFS has redefined what a modern fleet can look like, here is the history that shaped the iconic red fire engine.
The Real Historical Reasons Fire Engines Became Red
1. Visibility in Early Roads and Cities
In the early 1900s, red was one of the brightest, most visible paint colours available. Cities were full of grey stone, dark brick and muted signage. A shiny red vehicle stood out sharply long before reflective markings or high-visibility materials existed.
Choosing red genuinely helped early brigades be seen. At the time, it made perfect sense.
2. Red Paint Was Expensive and Symbolic
A popular myth suggests red was chosen because it was cheap. In reality, the opposite was true.
Historically, red enamel was one of the more expensive paints. Many fire brigades, particularly volunteer units, chose it deliberately because it conveyed pride, professionalism and importance. A bright red engine in a parade or event sent a clear message:
This was a team that took its role seriously.
Red was about identity and status, not budget.
3. Tradition Took Over
Once the public associated fire engines with the colour red, the tradition cemented itself. Even as technology and visibility improved, many services kept red purely because it had become culturally expected.
Over time, red became less about visibility and more about familiarity.
Why EMFS Chose a Modern Direction
EMFS Group is not a household fire authority. We are an emergency medical, fire and safety solutions provider supporting a wide range of sectors including aviation, industrial, film, television and some of the world's most prestigious events such as Silverstone.
Because we operate in diverse environments, we have the flexibility and responsibility to ask a simple question:
Does red still make sense for the work we do today?
For us, the answer was no.
Modern environments, advanced lighting conditions and reflective livery mean that visibility is achieved through design, not tradition. Our signature black and high-visibility Battenburg pattern offers exceptional contrast day and night, especially under event lighting, blue lights and flood illumination.
But visibility was only one part of our decision.
A Fleet Designed for the High-End Environments We Serve
At global-level events like Royal Ascot, professionalism is not suggested, it is expected. Clients trust us to deliver safety with discretion, capability and a premium standard of presentation. A sleek, modern fleet reinforces that trust.
The black and Battenburg design does more than turn heads. It communicates:
operational excellence
modern emergency standards
a forward-thinking mindset
professionalism suitable for prestigious environments
Our fleet transformation reflects who we are today and the industry we serve.
Leading the Industry Through Innovation
When we modernised our fleet, we were not following a trend. We helped create one.
Our design choices influenced a shift across the wider private fire and safety industry. Others have since embraced similar approaches, and we welcome that. Raising standards benefits every team that relies on emergency services and every community or event that depends on them.
Leadership means setting a new direction. Innovation first, inspiration next.
Today, EMFS operates one of the most capable, advanced and versatile fleets in the sector, covering everything from aviation firefighting and water rescue to event safety, emergency medical response and film and TV operations.
Our fleet is not just a collection of vehicles. It is a statement of how far we have come and the standards we continue to raise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were fire engines originally red?
Because red was one of the brightest, most visible colours available and symbolised pride and professionalism.
Is red still the most visible colour today?
Not necessarily. Modern reflective markings and high-contrast patterns provide far better visibility than paint colour alone.
Are EMFS fire engines part of a public fire service?
No. EMFS Group is a specialist private emergency medical, fire and safety solutions provider operating across events, aviation, industrial sites, film, TV and more.
Why did EMFS choose a black fleet?
Visibility, modernity, operational practicality and suitability for high-profile environments. The design complements reflective Battenburg markings to maximise safety.
Are black fire engines safe?
Absolutely. Visibility is achieved using reflective Battenburg, lighting, contrast and compliance with modern emergency vehicle standards. Paint colour is only one component of safety.
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