27 Oct Crocs, thongs and escalators: a safety reminder for parents
Children love their Crocs and rubber thongs, but these popular shoes can pose an unexpected risk on escalators.
A family trip to the shopping centre is an everyday outing, but there’s one safety hazard parents may overlook: children’s footwear on escalators.
New research commissioned by Schindler Lifts Australia found that 75% of Australian children had worn soft or flexible footwear, such as Crocs or rubber thongs, on an escalator in the past year.
Yet almost half of parents surveyed (49%) were unaware that these shoes can become caught in an escalator, particularly when children’s feet are too close to the sides.
Why little feet need extra care
Soft rubber shoes, loose shoelaces and clothing can become trapped between moving escalator steps and the sides.
The research found that 27% of parents had seen their child lean against or drag their feet along the side of an escalator.
Child psychologist and mother Breanna Sada says teaching children where to stand is a simple but important safety habit.
“What matters is teaching children to keep their feet in the middle of the step and away from the sides, whatever they’re wearing. It’s a small habit that makes a real difference,” she says.
Five escalator safety tips for families
- Stand in the middle. Hold young children’s hands, face forward and keep feet away from the edges.
- Watch your step. Step on and off carefully and move away from the exit promptly.
- Check footwear. Keep soft shoes, loose laces and clothing away from moving parts. Firm-soled, closed-toe shoes are a safer choice.
- No playing. Remind children not to sit on steps, lean against the sides or play with the handrail.
- Know the emergency stop. If something becomes caught, press the emergency stop button and call for help rather than trying to pull it free.
Always use a lift rather than an escalator when travelling with a pram or stroller.
Make safety a habit
Almost one in three parents surveyed (32%) said they had never specifically taught their children about escalator and lift safety.
Sada suggests treating these lessons like road safety: explain what to do, practise together and repeat the message without creating unnecessary anxiety.
For families: Schindler offers free colouring sheets, videos and activities through its Ellie & Eski Learning Hub.
Source: Research commissioned by Schindler Lifts Australia, 2026.
