Officials and residents on Long Island took precautions Thursday as a nor'easter barreled toward the region.

Nassau County officials closed the tidal gate protecting the Bay Park Sewage Treatment Plant for the first time since it was built.

At Jones Beach, crews built up the sand to protect against erosion, with bulldozers adding 2 to 3 feet of sand to barriers along the boardwalk.

In Point Lookout, Town of Hempstead crews were busy tying up boats in the West Marina and completing other storm preparations.

"We've been moving unnecessary equipment to higher ground," says Hempstead Town Councilman Anthony D'Esposito. "We've had our Parks Department on our beaches securing our dunes."

And over in Uniondale, crews were clearing drainage basins as a pre-emptive strike against street flooding. Hempstead Town Supervisor Laura Gillen says residents who notice leaves or debris in any catch basins can call the town's hotline at 516-489-6000.

Strong winds could lead to power outages, and flooding could lead to problems with gas lines.

National Grid's control room said it was monitoring for leaks. The utility said if residents do smell gas, they should call first responders.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo has activated the state's Emergency Operations Center.

Officials urge residents to bring in lawn furniture, fill their cars with gas and stock up on supplies like water and batteries.