You need a set of toe clip buttons. That way you leave the end of the strap loose with the button near the end.
You reach down with one hand to tighten. The button makes this easier because you're pulling on it.
When you need to get out, you have two options: (1) push the buckle open by reaching down with your hand or (2) **** panic time and pull up like hell with your foot. (1) always works, (2) only works if you have enough adrenaline going.
If you can't get out, it's not the end of the world. You're generally better off falling with the bike and making sure that your large fleshy bits scrape along the pavement. Just don't try to break your fall with your wrist. You did shave your legs
before trying out your toe clips and straps with cleated shoes, right? This will make the clean up after the fall go a lot easier.
Find a set of these in whatever color rocks your boat and learn to embrace road rash.
