Lyric discussion by bmulchrone 

Cover art for Fire Escape lyrics by Foster the People

I believe he is saying he is a last resort to others. His heart pumps out old "red paint". Red Paint here meaning blood, in which he pumps out towards everything. He is making a metaphor with himself on how he is a fire escape, making him safety for others but not getting anything else in return. He wants others to save themselves and not just rely on him being the one doing all the business, but to think for yourself and fight your own battles.

My Interpretation

it is sad when you see it was a metaphor for a person saving others. the fire escape gets walked on and left behind as people use it to get out of a situation that is dire. i like this idea.
sorry for bad english, it is not my first language.