Bermuda Electric Light Company (BELCO) has issued advice for customers to prepare for Hurricane Fabian.

***

BEFORE A STORM

Check insurance cover and ensure there are no tree branches that could take down a power line.

Keep emergency numbers and call BELCO at 955 to report outages.

Ensure you have candles, matches, flashlights, batteries, battery operated radio (the emergency broadcast frequency is FM 100.1 MZ); portable gas stove, fuel, fire extinguisher, sand bucket, first aid kit and fresh supplies; non-perishable foods including powdered milk; special items for infants, the elderly, the disabled and pets.

If Bermuda Weather Service issues a storm warning:Unplug appliances and electronic equipment and detach cable television.

Shut off valves on gas tanks and cylinders.

Fill bathtubs, sinks and extra containers with water; have household bleach on hand to purify water (one drop per litre or four drops per gallon).

Fill car and motorbike with gas; secure boat; secure shutters and moveable outdoor items; make sure pets are indoors.

***

DURING A HURRICANE

Stay indoors until hurricane has completely passed; keep all windows closed except those at opposite direction from where wind is blowing (ie open north windows if south wind is blowing). Open by six inches.

If the centre passes directly over the Island it will appear dead calm for up to an hour before the rain and wind resume suddenly from opposite direction.

During the lull, close the windows you have opened and open the windows on the opposite side of the house.

If the power goes out, unplug electrical equipment and appliances; leave one light on so you know when power has been restored.

During the height of the hurricane, do not call Police or Fire Services except in a real emergency.

BELCO monitors major outages during the storm, but can do little at the height of the storm. Do not call during the storm so lines are kept open for emergencies.

***

AFTER THE STORM

If your power is out, check with neighbours to see if theirs is out as well. Only call BELCO if power has been restored to neighbours but not you.

Only call BELCO once on 955 and only after the storm has subsided.

If power is out, turn off all lights except one so you will know when it is restored, and do not open fridge or freezer doors.

Call 955 to report downed lines immediately, even during the storm.

Stay clear of downed lines or piles of debris that may hide downed lines.