What to do after a hurricane in Bermuda

When a hurricane passes through the island, it typically brings with it strong winds and heavy rain, which can cause damage to homes and properties. Stay indoors and take action to keep your family safe during the storm, and after it has passed, don’t go out until emergency officials declare it’s safe to do so. Once the storm has subsided completely, consider these tips to stay safe as you inspect your home, assess your property for damage, and prepare to make a home insurance claim. 

What to do after a hurricane has passed

 

Keep these tips in mind in the immediate aftermath of the storm:

• If you’re not at home when the storm subsides, don’t return home until you get the all-clear to be on the road from local officials
• If your home has lost electricity, open your refrigerator and freezer sparingly to keep cool air in
• Avoid stepping on broken glass or debris, and be aware that parts of your home, your porch, or tree limbs may be weakened and could still give way if damaged by the storm
• Use your cell phone sparingly to conserve its battery, especially if your home is without power
• Check in on neighbours, especially the elderly and those who may need help
• Sterilize or boil your water before drinking it if you believe it has been contaminated, and contact the Health Department if you believe your tank water is contaminated
• If you smell gas or hear a blowing or hissing noise, there may be a gas leak — quickly leave your house and leave the doors open, and if you haven’t already done so, turn off external gas cylinders or the gas main, and call the gas company, police, or the fire service.

How to assess your property for damage after a hurricane 

 

Once you get the all-clear from local officials, you can carefully head outside. Be aware that roads may be blocked by debris and downed power lines, creating dangerous conditions outdoors, so proceed with caution.

When you’re assessing your property after a hurricane:

• Wear sturdy boots or shoes, and don’t wade through flooded areas with bare feet, as water may be contaminated or contain debris that could cause injuries
• ​If you see a damaged or downed power line, stay at least three car lengths away, and dial 955 to report it to Belco
• Keep kids and pets inside as much as possible
• Stay out of the way of rescue workers and keep roads clear for emergency vehicles

How to make a home insurance claim for hurricane damage

Sometimes property damage happens, even when you’ve taken all the right measures to prepare your home for a hurricane or tropical storm.
 
If you’re a BF&M customer and need to make a home insurance claim after a hurricane:

1. Walk around the inside and outside of your home and make a detailed list of all damage you want to include in your claim, including damage to your belongings. Take detailed photos of any damage around your property, as this may help with your insurance claim.
2. Download and submit a property claim form, or contact us to make your claim. You can reach us at +1 441 295 5566 or report your claim directly to [email protected].
3. Wait to hear from us and get ready to receive your payment. We’ll contact you if we have any questions as we process your claim. 

Visit our hurricane preparedness page for more important information on navigating hurricane season in Bermuda.