The earliest known fire department was in:

The earliest known fire department established in Ancient Rome is a significant historical detail. In the first century AD, the Roman Emperor Augustus recognized the need for a structured approach to fire fighting due to the frequent and devastating fires that plagued the densely populated city. This led to the formation of a formal group known as the "Cohortes Vigilum," which was tasked with extinguishing fires, making fire inspections, and enforcing regulations to prevent fires. This organization marked a pivotal moment in the development of fire-fighting techniques and fire safety as it organized a systematic response to fire incidents, a concept that was relatively advanced for its time.

Understanding the context of fire fighting in Ancient Rome highlights the importance of organizational structure in emergency services, which paved the way for later developments in fire response systems across various civilizations. The structured approach of the Roman fire department influenced subsequent fire fighting methods and policies throughout history, showcasing the evolution of public safety efforts.