What is the standard background color for STOP signs?

The standard background color for STOP signs is red. This distinct coloration is crucial as it serves to attract attention and convey an immediate warning to motorists. The use of red consistently signifies a need to stop, which is visually reinforced through its association with alertness and caution. The bright red color is easily recognizable from a distance and under various lighting conditions, allowing drivers to ensure safety on the road by responding quickly to the sign. The use of red for stop signs is standardized within traffic control devices to promote uniformity across different regions, enabling drivers to recognize hazards and obey traffic rules effectively.