Why is it necessary to disconnect the battery cable during a vehicle fire?

Disconnecting the battery cable during a vehicle fire is primarily necessary to facilitate fire extinguishment. When the battery is disconnected, it removes the electrical energy source that could potentially sustain the fire or cause it to reignite. Electrical components can continue to operate, possibly contributing to the fire if not managed properly. By cutting the power, responders can work more safely and effectively to extinguish the flames, preventing further hazards that arise from active electrics, such as short circuits or additional fuel sources being activated. In doing so, the firefighters can concentrate on putting out the fire without the risk of unexpected electrical discharges occurring.

While stopping the fuel pump is also a valid concern in some scenarios, the immediate priority in the situation of a vehicle fire is to control and extinguish the flames effectively without the interference of live electrical systems.