(a) The state fire marshal or the deputy state fire marshal shall have the power to summon and compel the attendance of witnesses before either or both of them, in any county in which the witness resides, to testify in relation to any matter which is designated by Code Section 25-2-27 as a subject of inquiry and to issue subpoenas to compel the production of all books, records, documents, and papers pertaining to such subject of inquiry. The state fire marshal and deputy state fire marshal may also administer oaths and affirmations to persons appearing as witnesses before them. Any person summoned shall have the right of counsel at the hearing if he desires.
(b) Should any person fail to comply with this Code section, the state fire marshal or his agent is authorized to procure an order from the superior court of the county in which the proposed witness resides, requiring compliance under the law.