Ministry Develops National Risk Register
The Ministry of National Security is developing a National Risk Register to strengthen Bermuda’s emergency preparedness.
“Preparedness is the key to resilience,” said the Minister of National Security Michael Weeks.
A Government spokesperson said, “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.”
The Government spokesperson said, “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 Government spokesperson said, “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 emogroup@gov.bm for more information.”
WOW! What a concept. Why was this not done years ago?
Are putting out electric bus and electric car fires on the list? Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service still lacks the proper equipment and training to deal with EV fires.
THey will react only after there is a fire and then they will rush in equipment and mandate training. See no evil, Hear no evil, speak no evil.
“Preparedness is the key to resilience”
Now if only we were prepared to reduce our nearly $4 BILLION current account debt