Abstract: A hot-melt adhesive composition based on ethylene/vinyl actetate copolymer comprising not more than 35% (preferably not more than 30%, more preferably not more than 25%) by weight, based on the whole composition, of halogen-free char-forming flame-retardant additive(s) in an amount at least sufficient to prevent flaming drips generated on burning of the adhesive from igniting the underlying absorbent cotton according to the 20 mm Vertical Burn Test of Underwriters Laboratories Test Method UL-94 (1993), V-1, preferably V-0. Preferred halogen-free flame-retardant additives include ammonium phosphates, melamine cyanurate, zinc borate, and especially red phosphorus.