In the event of an emergency, you might be advised to leave a particular area of the island. The Emergency Measures Organisation (EMO) makes the decision after consulting with committee members and weather officials.
If the EMO feels an area is at high risk, it will publicly notify you through the media.
The opening of the emergency shelter which can be used by the public will be announced through the local media and on the Emergency Broadcast Station, FM 100.1 MHz . If you need to evacuate your home, take your pre-assembled emergency supplies with you to the shelter.
What if I am a visitor on the island during an emergency?
Evacuation is voluntary and seats on flights are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
If you are unable to get a flight, you may wish to stay at your hotel to ride out the storm.
For more information please call the Bermuda Tourism Authority at (441) 296 9200.
Hurricane Shelter
There is one approved pre-hurricane shelter:
Cedarbridge Academy
Cedarbridge Academy Gymnasium
1 Cedarbridge Lane
Prospect DV 02
There are other school and church sites that may be used as Emergency Shelters in the case of a disaster. The EMO will determine which sites will be opened based on the specific circumstances of the disaster. A management team of trained public officers and volunteers are in charge of the shelters.
Emergency Medical Centres
There are two emergency medical centres:
- King Edward VII Hospital (441) 239 2009
- Urgent Care Centre (441) 298 7700
In emergencies where the Causeway Bridge is closed, medical coverage for the East End community will be carried out by the Lamb Foggo, Urgent Care Centre located at 1, Hall Street, Southside, St Georges, (between the Police Station and the building that used to house White’s Supermarket). The hours of operation are Monday to Friday 4pm to midnight, Saturday and Sunday 12 noon to midnight. During severe weather, these hours might be extended.
What to Take to the Emergency Shelter
Shelters usually open their doors to the public during the warning stage of the hurricane.
Do take:
- 3-4 days supply of food that does not need cooking;
- Can opener;
- 3-4 days supply of water (one gallon per day per person);
- First aid kit that includes prescription medications;
- Special needs items for infants (formula, bottles, diapers);
- Special needs items for elderly or disabled family members;
- Bedding (sleeping bags, pillows);
- Battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries;
- Change of clothes;
- Extra set of car keys, credit cards, cash;
- Passports and important family papers;
- Reading materials and quiet games to help pass time and keep children occupied;
- Car charger for your cell phone.
Do not take:
- Pets;
- Cigarettes, other tobacco products or illegal drugs;
- Alcohol;
- Weapons;
- Cooking equipment;
- Furniture.
Cots and air mattresses may not be allowed because of limited space.