When attempting to extinguish a fire, effort should be made to extinguish the flames in which direction?

The correct approach to extinguishing flames on a person is to move from head to toe. This method is effective because it prioritizes the safety of the individual by addressing the most vulnerable parts of the body first. When a person is on fire, the flames can rapidly develop from the head downward, so tackling the fire starting at the head helps to prevent the fire from spreading further down the body or causing severe injury to the face and neck area.

Additionally, extinguishing flames in this direction helps to ensure that the fire is smothered effectively, as covering the head and upper body first can reduce the risk of inhalation of smoke and hot gasses. It also encompasses a systematic approach to putting out the flames, minimizing the chance of leaving some areas still ignited.

Other methods, such as starting from the feet or avoiding the head, would be less effective and could increase the risk of severe burns or injury to critical areas. The head-to-toe method provides a comprehensive and safer strategy during emergencies involving fire.