JOPLIN, Mo. (KSNF) — Do you know where your most durable shoes are? If a tornado threatens, meteorologists say having your shoes at the ready is just as important as finding a safe place to seek shelter.

During a tornado warning, time is of the essence — and having your shoes on or close by could be a lifesaver.

“If you’ve ever noticed an area that’s been hit by a tornado, there’s usually a lot of debris — splintered wood, broken glass, broken dishes, and it doesn’t leave you a pathway. You have to find your way out of that storm-affected area, whether it’s your storm shelter, your basement, or what’s left of your home,” said Meteorologist Ray Foreman. “You need to be able to get out safely without damaging your feet, and shoes are always a good thing to have.”

And it’s not just any pair of shoes you should be wearing. Foreman says it’s important to have on your most sturdy pair.

“I speak of sturdy shoes because flip-flops won’t cut it. Also, a lot of tennis shoes are actually pretty thin. So, if the worst does happen and you have to walk on debris, you’ll want to be wearing shoes that will protect your feet from broken glass and other wreckage in the aftermath of the storm,” said Foreman.

Just as important as having a good, sturdy pair of shoes at the ready, is having a “go-bag,” or an easy-to-carry bag that holds everything you need if you have to leave in a hurry or an emergency.

“You’d want to have in your go-bag any medications you might need. You’d also want to pack water and a weather radio in case that’s the only way you have for communication to hear what’s going on. Also, your cell phone and a phone charger are always something a lot of people overlook. Have your phone charged ahead of time too because you don’t know if you might be in an area that’s without power for an extended time,” said Foreman.

You’ll find important information from the National Weather Service on tornado safety for you and your family, here.