What color should rockets, shells, or flares be to indicate an emergency?

Rockets, shells, or flares that are red indicate an emergency situation. This color is universally recognized for signaling distress and alerting others that assistance is needed. The use of red for emergency signals is well established in various maritime and aviation guidelines, as it conveys urgency and catches the attention of those nearby. In the context of boat crew operations, understanding the significance of signal colors is crucial for effective communication in emergencies, ensuring that the proper response can be initiated promptly.

The other colors—green, blue, and yellow—do not convey the same urgent message. Green is often used for safety or navigational signals, while blue is associated with law enforcement or sometimes medical assistance, and yellow commonly indicates caution or warning rather than a call for immediate help. Thus, red is distinctly the appropriate color for emergency signals.