The fire department, when answering any fire alarm or call or performing any fire prevention service or rescue operation outside the corporate limits of the city pursuant to the provisions of this article, shall be considered an agent of the state and acting solely and alone in a governmental capacity, and the city shall not be liable in damages for any act of commission, omission or negligence while answering or returning from any fire or reported fire, or doing any fire prevention work or rescue operation under and by virtue of this article. (1985 Code)