Might I be allow to suggest that we stop using the word "emergency" as part of the phrase "emergency disconnect"? The required "service disconnecting means" is not intended to serve as an "emergency" method of turning off power. I get that a fire can be classified as an "emergency situation," and that the fire-fighters will want to turn off all power before spraying water. But that will likely be tens of minutes after the fire was detected. Turning off the "service disconnecting means" will therefore not be an "emergency action," but rather part of the first responders' normal course of action in tackling a fire.
When I see the phrase "emergency disconnect," what comes to my mind is, "Oh no! That person is touching a live wire and is getting shocked. I must find a way, and very quickly, to turn off power, in the hopes of saving their life." That, I would say, is not the reason the NEC requires installation of a "service disconnecting means."
I'll step down from the soap box now.