Nov 9 is National Fire Safety Day in China. What should you do if there is a fire?

*Get help from your parents or call 119. Don’t try to put out a fire by yourself.

*Get out of the room as soon as you can. If there’s a lot of smoke in your room, stay close to the floor. It’s easier to breathe (呼吸) there and see things.

*Use the stairs during a fire. An elevator (电梯) may stop working at any time.

*Don’t go back for your pet or anything else. Animals have a good sense of smell. They often get out before you do.

*If you can’t get out of your room, close the door and put a blanket or a quilt at the foot of the door. It can stop the smoke from coming in. Open the window and shout for help.

*If your coat catches fire, remember these words: Stop, drop and roll (滚动).

Hurricane Irma was a very strong storm. It hit Florida in September. Many people left their homes. Some made special plans ahead of time. They planned to take their pets with them.

This is important. It is easy for pets to get lost in disasters. Rescue centers take in many pets after a big storm. Some pets get scared. They run away. Others get left behind. Scared pets may hide. Their owners cannot find them.

Sometimes, families leave without their pets. They have to leave quickly. So they do not have time to find the pet. Planning can keep this from happening.

Plan Ahead For Emergencies

Tim Rickey works for an animal rescue group. It is called the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Mr. Rickey said families should plan ahead for an emergency. They should not leave their pets at home. It is too dangerous.

Families that plan can still lose their pets. This is sad for the family. And it is scary for the pet. But they should not give up. There are ways to find each other again.

Comfort Your Pet During Storms

Owners know their pets. Does your dog run when he gets scared? Ask your parents to buy a stronger leash, Mr. Rickey said. Does your cat like to hide? Make her a safe place. Then you will know where to look for her first. Make sure you can get there quickly. You may have to leave home in a hurry.

Your pet may be scared by a big storm. Comfort him or her. Treats and toys can cheer your pet. Lots of snuggles help, too.

Don’t Lose Hope

Planning is a big help. But disasters are unpredictable. You may still lose your pet. If so, do not lose hope. You need to keep looking. Animal rescue centers are very busy after a disaster. You should call them often.

Also, you should search for your pet in a wide area. Do not stick to your town only. Your pet may be in a nearby town or city. Sometimes, other states take in animals after disasters. See if this is the case where you live. Then check with those faraway shelters.