Bermuda Electric Light Company Limited (BELCO) issued a reminder to residents to be prepared for hurricane season as we approach the most active part of the season in September and October.
BELCO staff begin preparations for hurricane season months before the threat of a storm with the Crisis Management Team meeting to ensure early planning and preparations are completed, supplies are ordered, and pre-storm checklists reviewed.
Once impact by a hurricane is confirmed, assets, which include new poles, transformers and other critical supplies are placed in strategic locations ahead of the storm so they can be deployed quickly to needed locations and not be impeded by any obstacles on the island’s roads.
If Bermuda is impacted by a storm which results in power outages, restoration crews start work as soon as it is declared safe to do so and continue until every customer has had power restored. Power is restored according to a specific plan.
Main line circuits must be restored first so that branch lines can then be repaired in order for power to be restored to homes. If a customer has lost power, the main and branch lines must be repaired and energised before damage to a specific household can be fixed or else there will be no power feeding into the lines that supply that home. It is important to note that BELCO never intentionally shuts off power to any customers.
BELCO President Wayne Caines said: “While this season has started off relatively quietly, meteorologists maintain their prediction for an active storm season this year. The last few days have seen an increase in activity, but the public can take comfort in knowing that BELCO are well prepared for whatever may come our way. During the aftermath of a hurricane, BELCO staff certainly appreciate the patience and understanding of the public as we work to get everyone’s power restored as quickly and safely as possible.
I encourage the public to review their own hurricane safety plans as well as tips and advice on the BELCO website to keep their family and property safe should we be impacted by a storm this season.”
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