If Hurricane Sandy comes calling, are you ready? Chancellor Volunteer Fire & Rescue offers some tried-and-true tips to help residents survive the next hurricane that could threaten the east coast.

“First of all, check your emergency supplies and gather items that would be needed if a power outage should last for several days,” said Kevin Dillard, Administrative Chief of Chancellor Volunteer Fire & Rescue. Some important items to include in a hurricane survival kit include:

• A supply of water equal to one gallon per person per day (minimum 3-day supply)
• Some non-perishable food and a can opener
• A first-aid kit
• Baby and/or pet supplies
• Blankets and batteries
• Flashlights
• Personal items and toilet paper
• Medications

When a hurricane watch is issued, here’s some advice to follow:

• Bring in or secure garbage cans, outdoor furniture, bikes, plants, etc.
• Put some gas in the car
• Store valuable papers in a waterproof/fireproof container
• Charge up cell phones and have a battery-powered radio on hand
• Check emergency supplies

During the storm, a few tips include:

• Stay inside, away from windows, and preferably in the center of the house
• If you lose power, turn off major appliances to prevent a power surge when power is restored
• Listen to the radio and watch TV broadcasts (if possible) for official instructions
• Avoid opening the refrigerator door unless necessary, to keep foods cold as long as possible

"The time for families to think about a weather crisis and preparedness plan is well before the event - not in the middle when the power may be out," said David Botkins, spokesperson for Dominion Virginia Power. "A list of action items and key phone numbers can be posted inside a pantry or closet door, and a home preparedness kit with important items can be collected well in advance - and should be." Dominion provides updates on their Facebook page and also on Twitter (@DomVaPower).

“Being well-prepared for Mother Nature’s wild side brings peace of mind,” said Dillard.

Some websites with advice to weather a hurricane include www.hurricanetips.org, www.nhc.noaa.gov, and www.hurricaneville.com, among others.