How to stay safe during a hurricane in Bermuda
When local officials have declared that a hurricane is approaching the island, you might feel like you’re waiting it out for hours, as it may be quite slow-moving at first — but it’s important to stay inside and be prepared to take action. Consider these tips to keep your family safe until the storm has passed.
What to do during a hurricane
When storm conditions like strong winds and rain have reached Bermuda:
- Continue to monitor local news stations — if they go off the air, tune in to the Government Emergency Broadcast Station on FM 100.1 mHz
- Stay inside, and keep away from windows and doors
- Avoid using electrical appliances, and unplug them if the power goes out
- If the storm intensifies, go to your designated safe room (preferably an interior room, closet, or hallway without a window, skylight, or glass door)
- If you’re not at home when the storm hits, stay where you are until local officials declare it’s safe to go outdoors
What to do if the power goes out during a hurricane
It is typical for electricity to go out during a severe storm
. If the power in your home goes out during a hurricane:
- Keep your battery-powered radio tuned in to the Government Emergency Broadcast Station on FM 100.1 mHz for storm-related updates
- Unplug as many appliances as possible to prevent a power surge when the electricity comes back on
- Leave one light switched on so you’ll know when power has been restored
- Limit the number of times you open your fridge and freezer doors
- Never use a generator or cook with a charcoal or other fossil fuel-powered appliance indoors
- Don't call Belco to report a power outage while the storm is still happening — power will be restored when the storm subsides.
- Only call Belco (at 955) in the event of an emergency or potentially life-threatening situation such as a downed power line or pole fire
- Stay inside — but if you have to go out, stay at least three car lengths away from downed power lines
When you believe the storm has passed, stay alert and wait for local officials to give the all-clear. If you happen to be in the eye of the hurricane, be aware that it might look like the storm has passed, as the sky may clear and winds may die down. However, storm conditions may enter your area once again — so stay indoors until authorities declare it safe to go outside, and then keep these tips in mind as you inspect your property for damage.
Have questions about your insurance coverage or how it might protect you in the event that your home is damaged during the storm?
Log in to review your home insurance policy online or contact the BF&M customer service team at +1 441 295 5566 for support.
Visit our hurricane preparedness page for more important information on navigating hurricane season in Bermuda.