Roger Flohr had some sound advice for Dover firefighters as they wrapped up training at the York County Fire School on Sunday.

Get some sleep, he told the first responders. It might be their only opportunity for rest for some time if Hurricane Sandy hits York County as forecasters are predicting.

The Dover fire chief said his department, like many across the county, spent the past few days preparing for the storm and possible flooding and wind damage.

"We're ready to go," Flohr said. "We've done as much preparation as we possibly can."

The fire station will be staffed by volunteer firefighters throughout the storm and the department's ladies auxiliary made preparations to accommodate those who may be displaced from their homes. The station at 30 E. Canal Road will serve as a shelter for those displaced for a short time or who are transitioning to a Red Cross shelter, Flohr said.

Glen Rock officials will open a temporary shelter at Trinity UCC at 27-29 Manchester St. in the borough.

Learned from Lee: A Mount Wolf fire official said the fire department has learned from lessons after responding to a number of water related incidents during and after Tropical Storm Lee.

Chief Ryan Brenneman said the department now has a water rescue team after members went through special training and are equipped for water rescues.

A large portion of the $7,000 needed for training costs was donated by the Wago Club in East Manchester Township, which was surrounded by floodwater during a storm in spring 2011. An additional $15,000 bought equipment, including dry suits, lifejackets, helmets, boots and ropes, for the team, the chief said.

Brenneman said first responders had more time to plan for Sandy, as opposed to Lee. "I think that last year there was much less notice," he said.

Pumps: Ira Walker, chief of Eureka Fire Dept. in Stewartstown, said his department is also as prepared as they can be for Sandy and her possible affects.

Equipment, including pumps, has been checked and is ready for calls.

However, Walker said firefighters will only pump basements after the storm has passed.

"We're going to be prepared and have our pumps ready to go," he said.

The station will be staffed 24 hours a day until the threat of the storm has passed.

"Anytime we have a weather event like this, we try to staff our station so emergency responders don't risk injury getting to the station to respond to a call," Walker said.

- Reach Greg Gross at ggross@yorkdispatch.com.