“Preparedness is the key to resilience,” said the Minister of National Security, the Hon. Michael Weeks, JP, MP.
The Ministry of National Security’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Mitigation Team (DRRMT) is developing a national risk register (NRR) to enhance Bermuda’s preparedness for national emergencies.
To this end, the DRRMT is conducting a week-long training session with key stakeholders at Warwick Camp from 24 to 28 February to focus on the development of the NRR and equip stakeholders, including Government Ministries, departments and businesses, with the tools to identify and mitigate the Island’s most pressing risks.
The most pressing risks facing the Island include hurricanes and serious weather events, infrastructure failures such as telecommunications and electricity, cyber incidents, supply-chain disruptions to food and fuel and socio-economic challenges.
“By identifying and understanding the threats we face, we can take decisive action to safeguard Bermuda’s public safety, infrastructure, and economy,” Minister Weeks added. “This training is a critical step in strengthening our ability to respond to any emergency that may come our way.”
Participants in the training will engage in hands-on exercises, collaborative discussions, and risk mitigation strategy development, ensuring they are better prepared to respond effectively to various threats.
Minister Weeks underscored the broad scope of national risk, stating: “Emergencies extend beyond hurricanes. A cyberattack on local banks, a significant shipping disruption, or an island-wide power outage could have severe consequences.
“Coordinated response planning between the Government and private sector is crucial, and this training helps stakeholders refine their preparedness strategies.
“Consider an airport emergency such as a hazardous spill or an aircraft incident requiring immediate coordination with transport providers, accommodation services, food suppliers, and logistics companies. With a well-structured NRR, we can ensure contingency plans are in place, and agencies know their roles in providing critical assistance.”
The Minister highlighted the importance of private sector involvement in Bermuda’s disaster preparedness and emphasised the value of business and organisational engagement in the National Risk Register.
The DRRMT remains dedicated to enhancing readiness by keeping all agencies engaged, trained, and prepared to respond when needed.
Organisations of all sizes, including transport companies, hotels, logistics providers, and essential service operators, are encouraged to participate.
Those unable to attend this session may have future opportunities to participate. Please email drrmt@gov.bmfor more information.
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