In February 1976, the Southern Area Fire Equipment Research organization was founded by a group of individuals who felt that many areas of fire service needed coordinated attention. The original S.A.F.E.R. logo shows the words: SCBA, ROPES, PASS, OSHA, CLOTHING, HELMETS, APPARATUS, and BOOTS. These were the original areas it was felt that needed better performance and standards than were in effect at the time. Years of effort have had a major impact on the apparatus, equipment, safety, and standards in effect today. 

S.A.F.E.R. Membership includes individuals representing more than 100 private, city, county, state, and federal fire agencies, as well as manufacturers and vendors of fire service related equipment. Founded in Southern California, membership has expanded to include representatives from many other states and countries. In 1996, S.A.F.E.R. became a Californian Non-Profit Corporation and is recognized as a 501 (c) (3) Public Charity in accordance with IRC.

S.A.F.E.R. was organized as a forum to exchange information, and to coordinate fire equipment research via meeting attendance and publication of meeting minutes. We provide our member departments with input to state and national agencies such as CAL/OSHA, N.I.O.S.H., and NFPA in the development of standards for firefighter safety, protective clothing and equipment. S.A.F.E.R. members also work with manufacturers in product research and development of equipment for the fire service. 

We invite active participation by all persons, agencies, and companies interested in joining our organization. Meetings are usually held on the third Friday of each month at various locations throughout Southern California.