In the unlikely event of an emergency, people don’t realize the clothes and shoes they wear can play a major role in their safety.  Often when people fly they wear clothes made of synthetic blend fabrics because they are easy to wear and maintain, and do not wrinkle when spending a long time seated.  However, they also ignite quickly, shrink, melt, and continue burning even after the heat source is removed.   

In the unlikely event that the aircraft is evacuated, even pantyhose can contribute to injuries as they melt and cause burns from the friction generated with contact on the escape slide.  Things like synthetic wigs, hairpieces, scarves, ties and underwear can also get very hot and melt causing severe burns.  Wearing clothes and other items made of natural fibers like cotton, wool, denim or leather are best.

Avoid leaving large areas of the body uncovered.  You want to try and keep a barrier between you and a fire and to help protect against burns.  Stay clear of shorts or skirts because they do not cover extremities.  Slacks, jeans, long-sleeved shirts and other long-sleeved tops are best.  Wear looser, non-restrictive clothing to allow for greater movement.

You can help prevent injuries to your feet in the event of an accident or emergency by wearing appropriate shoes. The best shoes to wear are fully enclosed leather low-heeled laced or buckled shoes, boots, or tennis shoes.  Avoid sandals and high-heeled dress shoes.  Keep your shoes on during the flight.  You don’t want to waste time trying to find your shoes in an emergency, and you’ll want to have them on during an emergency.  High-heeled dress shoes will have to be removed before using the escape slide.  Unprotected feet can slow your departure from the airplane once outside.  Imagine trying to walk or run through jet fuel, which possibly could be on fire, broken glass, or sharp metal fragments without shoes to protect your feet.

In Summary –

• Wear looser, non-restrictive clothing and items made of natural, not synthetic fibers.
• Cover as much of your body as you can.  Wear long pants and long-sleeved tops.
• Wear enclosed low-healed leather laced or buckled shoes or boots, or tennis shoes.

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