Your next crash will probably be a very violent, dynamic event. The fuel line will be ripped out of the tank, sparks from the sliding will set fire to the fuel.
How close do you want that to you?
The rules have nothing to do with it. If there isn't a firewall between you and any possible fuel source you ARE NOT SAFE.
A firewall is different from a bulkhead. A firewall must be sealed completely. The tiniest of holes can allow flames to blow through.