What is the recommended action to take if your clothes catch fire?

The recommended action to take if your clothes catch fire is to stop, drop, and roll. This technique is effective because it helps to extinguish flames by depriving them of oxygen. When a person stops moving, it reduces the airflow that fuels the fire. Dropping to the ground minimizes the area affected by the flames, and rolling back and forth helps to smother the flames, especially if the person is on a non-combustible surface, such as grass or a floor.

This method is universally taught because it is straightforward and can be applied quickly in a panic situation, ultimately increasing the chances of survival and reducing injuries caused by burns.