足あし元もとに火ひが付つく

expression, godan verb (-ku)

be in imminent danger; danger is close at hand

Idiomatic expression meaning that a crisis or threat is very near, as if a fire has started at one's feet. Often used when trouble is approaching quickly or one's situation is about to become critical.

• 締しめ切きりが明日あしたで、足あし元もとに火ひが付ついている。

  The deadline is tomorrow, and I'm in imminent danger (of missing it).

• 資し金きん繰ぐりが厳きびしくて、もう足あし元もとに火ひが付つきそうだ。

  Cash flow is so tight that we're about to be in serious trouble.