Where was the earliest known fire department established?

The earliest known fire department was established in Ancient Rome. The Romans created a structured system for fire prevention and response around 24 BCE, organized under Augustus Caesar. This initiative included the formation of a group known as the "Vigiles," who were responsible not only for firefighting but also for maintaining order and preventing crime in the city. The Vigiles utilized various tools such as buckets, ladders, and even a form of fire engine, showcasing an early understanding of organized fire protection.

This structured approach to firefighting set a precedent for future fire departments, promoting the importance of organized response efforts in urban settings. Other civilizations, while having their methods for dealing with fire, did not develop a formalized fire department to the same extent or with the same organizational structure as seen in Ancient Rome.