Shoreline towns prep for Sandy

MILFORD, Conn. (WTNH) -- Most towns along the vulnerable Connecticut coastline have decided it is better to be safe than sorry.

Friday, Fairfield's First Selectman rolled out their plan for the emergency operations center saying, they learned from Irene and the Autumn Nor'easter last year.

"We've had two cracks at this, we've gone back we've modified our procedures, most importantly in the communication area to make sure we're getting more information out sooner to our residents," said First Selectman Mike Tetreau.

That sentiment was echoed in Milford.

"You always have to prepare for the worst, we're hopeful that this is gonna be a storm that passes us by," said Milford Mayor Ben Blake.

Mayor Blake says they will be opening a shelter at Jonathan Law, if necessary. They did have to evacuate some areas there last year when Irene hit, as the flood waters rose to a dangerously high level. Strong winds were also a factor, plunging many into the dark for days and days. The police and the fire department have put their contingency plans in place, they will have all shifts working.

"The police department, like in all storms, we're prepared to provide security in the effected areas, any areas that may have to be evacuated, we'll remain down there in force to protect those areas," said Chief Keith Mello, Milford PD.

In possibly the hardest hit area, Cosey Beach in East Haven, they are bracing for round two. Friday State Senator Len Fasano talked to residents who were busy boarding up their houses once again. Fasano says, Irene taught the state where our weaknesses were, so with Sandy bearing down our plans are better.

"Both before the storm, for prep, during the storm in the event that there's some rescues or other emergencies, and then probably equally as important is after the storm. Making sure people get electricity as quickly as possible," said Sen. Fasano.