Emergency signals and flashing lights play a crucial role in our daily traffic system, but the color of these lights can mean a lot. In the Netherlands, green flashing lights are mainly used by emergency services and army units, but in special situations such as track investigations or tests. So the rules and applications of green flashing lights vary from country to country. So the question is: Are you allowed to use a green flashing light? In this blog, we explain to you the specific rules and regulations surrounding green flashing lights and look at the reasons for use within the legal framework.

Did you know.... green flashing beacons are used for different purposes? In Britain, for example, they are required on vehicles to indicate that the driver is wearing his or her seat belt. If you are not wearing the seat belt, the green light will remain off. If you do wear the seat belt, the flashing light will flash! This system is especially common on excavators and other large earth-moving equipment, improving safety on the job site.

Green flashing beacon: a signal of vigilance and safety

Did you know that green light from flashing lights has a special effect on people? Perceiving green light lowers heart rate, adrenaline levels and blood pressure, unlike colors such as orange, blue or especially red. Green radiates safety and calm. Sometimes police use green flashing lights during surveillance to prevent burglaries, especially in troubled neighborhoods or areas with an increased risk of burglaries. Imagine watching TV quietly in your living room at night and suddenly seeing blue flickering lights shining through the window. You are most likely startled, because you have unconsciously developed a "click response" when seeing this color of light. This makes sense, because you usually only see emergency vehicles driving around with this color. A green light beam is less likely to trigger this startle effect, but you know that police surveillance is taking place. This can provide a sense of security especially in troubled neighborhoods.

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The versatile use of green flashing beacon

Another typical time when green flashing lights are used on police cars is during a trace investigation. During a trace investigation, it is very important that no traces are lost. With the green color, the police want to indicate that people should be careful, but that there is no actual emergency. This color indicates special attention to investigation and safety, and it serves to draw attention to the police presence at the scene.

Police vehicles, military police, fire departments and ambulances also use a green flashing light in very serious accidents or emergencies and serves several purposes in such situations. Namely, it signals the presence of emergency services to other road users, while at the same time indicating that caution is needed in the vicinity of the incident. The green light can also signify that emergency services are involved in specific tasks, such as rescue operations or mapping the situation.

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What should you do when you see a police car with green flashing beacons?

The green light signal differs from a blue light signal. If you encounter a police car with green flashing lights, it is important to be vigilant and cautious. Green flashing lights usually do not indicate an emergency, but rather signal that extra attention is needed, such as during police actions, surveillance or trace investigations. Here are some steps to follow (if applicable):

  • Stay calm.
  • Reduce your speed.
  • Comply with traffic rules.
  • Follow any instructions.
  • Keep enough distance or give space if necessary.
  • Stay alert.

It is important to remember that green flashing lights usually do not indicate an emergency, so there is usually no immediate danger. Act in a respectful and cooperative manner to ensure everyone's safety.

Are you allowed to use green flashing lights yourself?

In most countries, including the Netherlands, the use of green flashing lights on private vehicles is strictly regulated and generally not allowed for the average road user. Green flashing lights are usually reserved for specific vehicles and services such as police, fire, ambulance and other emergency services. Using green flashing lights on a private vehicle without the proper permits and consents can result in legal penalties. So, simply fitting your car with green flashing lights, fancy neon strips all around and smoked taillights is, unfortunately, not an option.

By the way, while the possession and use of green flashing lights is often permitted on private property, it is important to be mindful of local rules and regulations even on private property to avoid any problems. It is always advisable to consult the specific laws and regulations in your area before installing a green flashing light on your vehicle.

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Featured green lamp


EQR65GBM - Police car green beacon

R65 certified green flashing light 10 - 30 volt equipped IP67 waterproof 3 bolt mounting Also available with magnetic base & 12v connection 3 year warranty EMC isolated


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The influence of the green flashing light in society

There is little scientific evidence available that green flashing lights on police cars actually reduce theft. However, the use of green lights on police vehicles may be beneficial in other ways. In fact, scientific research on light signals has shown that green light can lower people's heart rate, adrenaline levels and blood pressure, which can promote a sense of calm and safety. This is in contrast to colors such as blue or red, which are often associated with emergency situations.

In various parts of the Netherlands, the Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment conducted experiments in which police cars were equipped with green beacons instead of an orange beacon. These experiments aimed to investigate whether green light would positively affect the visibility and responses of people near police actions. The main goal was to enhance the safety of police operations and possibly reduce the risk of violent confrontations. Nevertheless, the Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment decided to terminate the experiments prematurely.

Green lighting in the light range at TRALERT®

In our assortment At TRALERT® you will find green flashing beacons. While we understand that the average person without a background in emergency services may not immediately look for these specific products, green flashing lights can still be useful to improve the safety of, for example, agricultural machinery or large earth-moving vehicles (on private property). Although not mandatory in the Netherlands, it is a valuable addition for those who need extra visibility and safety.

You may also be interested in green lighting to add a personal touch to your vehicle. For these decorative purposes, we have a variety of green lighting options available in our assortment. Whether you want to make your vehicle stand out or add practical safety enhancements, TRALERT® has the right solutions for you.

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181GME - Green signal lamp

Green light for installation or construction 12 - 24 volt equipped IP67 watertight Also available in orange and red 5-year warranty EMC isolated


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