The Automatic Fire Alarm Association was formed in 1953 and is the only national trade association exclusively dedicated to representing the automatic fire detection and fire alarm systems industry. The membership is made up of all segments of industry (manufacturer's, distributors, state and regional associations, users, AHJs, engineers, and others).

The Association is committed to influencing codes and standards at all levels to make buildings safer through the proper application of automatic fire detection and fire alarm systems. Over the last four years significant time and energy has been spent on insuring that the ICC (International Code Council) and the International Building, Fire and Residential Codes scheduled for publication in the year 2000 require fire alarm and automatic detection systems for life safety and proper protection. Members also participate in the promulgation of NFPA 101, the Life Safety Code and NFPA 72, the National Fire Alarm Code.

The AFAA sponsors an internet Discussion List for fire alarm professionals to discuss all aspects of automatic fire alarm systems.

Our members live by a Code of Ethics. We are governed by a Board of Directors, and we are guided by a strong commitment to education.