Looking at fire company and manufacturer websites I notice more and more companies going to silver over red. Black over red has become increasily popular but I'm wondering if silver will overtake black because of visibility issues?
I remember when Boston IAFF threatened to strike in the 80's when the city tried to go lime green. As for visibility, I would really like to see the studies that show any color works given all the warning lights and chevron striping out there now. While I respect "to each their own", here's some proof that fire apparatus manufacturer's just want to make a buck these days:
Or my all time favorite from Barberton in Summit County, OH - hit the link or you'll think I made this up - they matched the engine to school colors (or so the story goes):
OK - at least grape colored apparaturs in "Grapeville" makes a little sense, though I wonder what their helmets look like (apologies in advance - y'all must take a beating for that color)...
We call the unit that has all the extrication tools, generator, lift bags, extra pikes, axes and scene lights, the RESCUE TRUCK. The ambulance is for transporting patients and has the gurney, supplies for ALS and, EMS and is air conditioned for on scene re-hab if needed.
We went silver over red to be different than most. It looks good and matches the roll up doors as well. Had white over red before and also all red. They're all good! Just big Tonka toys to old kids.. Check out www.ghentfire.org for pictures. Be safe.
I prefer white over red which is the scheme my station uses with the exception of our old tender which is all yellow. Silver wouldnt look to bad though. You can see our trucks at www. lowellvfd.com