With early predictions of an above-average hurricane season for 2022, we must commence and maintain our hurricane readiness throughout the entirety of the season as it is of the utmost importance to do what we can – well in advance – to maintain safety and minimise destruction, danger, and loss of power.
The most effective method of protecting your property and your loved ones is to trim your trees back so that they are at least ten feet away from power lines. Fallen tree branches can pull down power lines and even entire utility poles. These downed lines pose a serious electrocution and fire hazard.
Trimming your trees can also reduce the risk of one of the most inconvenient parts of a hurricane: losing your electricity. Most outages in Bermuda are caused by trees falling on power lines, even in years where Bermuda avoids a direct hit.
By keeping trees trimmed at least ten feet back from power lines, the majority of outages can be prevented. This is why BELCO works to ensure that trees are cut back near main line circuits and some branch lines. This proactive approach has prevented outages on main line circuits since the programme launched in 2011.
BELCO is not responsible, however, for trimming trees on private property. The sole responsibility for keeping trees trimmed and cut back from power lines lies with the property owners. If you are unsure of whether a particular tree is your responsibility, please call BELCO at 299- 2800 or email [email protected] for clarification.
It is critically important to remember that a power line’s electricity must be disconnected before trimming trees next to it. BELCO and the customer will choose a date and start time, usually three weeks from the date of request.
Please schedule your tree trimming as soon as possible. Hurricane season is already underway, so now is the time to make sure that your trees are clear of any power lines.
Please visit belco.bm for more information about hurricane safety.
