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Slip and fall prevention

Keep trouser hems clear of the feet

Choose clothing that fits and does not drag or catch the feet; change overly long trousers before walking. Help the person sit safely before changing clothes; do not ask them to hold up trailing hems while walking.

High-priority reminder

Last reviewed: 2026-09-20

Keep trouser hems clear of the feet. Wrong action: Checking shoe grip but ignoring trouser hems dragging under the feet. Correct action: Choose clothing that fits and does not drag or catch the feet; change overly long trousers before walking.

Why it matters

Long or very wide trouser legs can catch around the feet or under a shoe, causing a trip even on a clear dry floor.

Wrong action

Checking shoe grip but ignoring trouser hems dragging under the feet.

Correct action

Choose clothing that fits and does not drag or catch the feet; change overly long trousers before walking.

What to do

  1. After dressing and before walking, check whether hems touch the floor or are caught under shoes.
  2. Choose clothing that fits and does not drag or catch the feet; change overly long trousers before walking.
  3. Help the person sit safely before changing clothes; do not ask them to hold up trailing hems while walking.

If something happens

For serious injury, unconsciousness or difficulty breathing, keep yourself safe, call 999 and follow the operator.

Sources and review

This page provides general home-safety information and does not replace medical, legal, electrical, or other professional advice.

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