Dear Sir,

Over the past few weeks, I have noticed more discussion of emergency preparedness in Britain, other European countries, the US and Japan. Why does Europe appear to be preparing for something big? Preparedness is not proof of imminent disaster, but it raises a question: is Bermuda ready for prolonged blackouts, cyberattacks and interrupted imports?

Britain recommends three days of supplies, Japan at least three, preferably seven, Sweden and Norway advise a week, Germany ten days where possible, and Finland three. France, the Netherlands, Denmark and Belgium also promote three-day preparedness.

Britain plans to exercise part of its 95,000-strong strategic reserve amid concerns about Russia. America’s Fortress initiative targets military energy, supply and cyber-resilience.

Post-Cold War cuts weakened Europe’s defence industries, and capability gaps remain. A US withdrawal from Nato or sharp reduction in support could deepen those gaps and weaken deterrence. Withdrawal is not an accomplished fact, but I worry that hostile states could exploit uncertainty.

Bermuda could suffer without being directly attacked. A major US cyberattack affecting ports, fuel distribution or banking could delay imports and payments. If overseas petrol and oil deliveries stopped until reserves ran out, transport, electricity generation and back-up generators could be affected.

Bermuda’s own September 2023 cyberattack exposed serious weaknesses in preparedness, public communication and accountability. Reporting on the July 2026 parliamentary findings noted that the Government remained tight-lipped about whether a ransom was paid. Residents deserve clear answers about what went wrong and what has been fixed — not simply assurances that we are ready.

Hurricane experience should not breed complacency. Covid-19’s panic-buying and “toilet-paper wars” showed how quickly fear can overwhelm sensible preparation.

The Government has begun a National Risk Register, and the Emergency Measures Organisation co-ordinates responses and FM100.1 broadcasts. But have prolonged outages and interrupted imports been rehearsed? How long could fuel reserves sustain essential services? Who would help vulnerable residents and inform those without internet access?

Bermuda needs clear household guidance, tested contingency plans and help for families unable to afford extra supplies. Encourage gradual preparation, not panic-buying. The Government should explain what is ready and what remains unfinished. Preparedness must be demonstrated, not assumed.

DAVID SKINNER

Paget