(a) General rule.--When requested by a State officer or a deputy serving as custodian of the premises, a volunteer fire, ambulance and rescue company or any member thereof is authorized to enter Commonwealth-owned premises for the purpose of fighting a fire.

(b) Free assistance.--The Attorney General shall provide free legal assistance to any volunteer fire, ambulance and rescue company or member thereof who has entered State lands and premises for the purpose of fighting a fire when such ambulance or rescue company or member thereof is joined as a defendant in any civil action arising out of the performance of his or its duty under this section in fighting a fire after entering State premises on proper request.