fire department

American  

noun

1. the department of a municipal government charged with the prevention and extinguishing of fire.

2. the personnel in such a department.

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fire department British  

noun

1. the department of a local authority responsible for the prevention and extinguishing of fires

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Etymology

Origin of fire department

An Americanism dating back to 1815–25

Example Sentences

Police commander Frederic Gisler told reporters that "the red alarm, which mobilises the fire department, was triggered" immediately when authorities were alerted to the situation.

From Barron's

"Immediately, the red alarm, which mobilises the fire department, was triggered," Gisler said, adding that firefighters "quickly contained the blaze" while the injured were being treated.

From Barron's

In Norway's Nordland region, one of the most northerly counties in the country, the fire department responded to more than 200 weather‑related incidents, broadcaster NRK reported.

From BBC

Making sure the blaze was out, the agency said, was the responsibility of the fire department.

From Los Angeles Times

Muddy water streamed through the town of Wrightwood a day earlier, trapping people in their homes, said Christopher Prater, spokesperson for the county fire department.

From Barron's