The strength of Bermuda homes in standing up against hurricanes over the centuries has been held up as an example for Florida residents to follow.

The Association of Bermuda Insurers and Reinsurers (ABIR) yesterday expressed its support for a US Senator's proposal for legislation giving US residents financial incentives to "storm-proof" their homes.

Bermuda had a long track record in showing how building strong could protect properties and those living in them, said ABIR president Brad Kading.

"Bermuda residents on average live through a hurricane every three years and a strong Category 4 storm every ten years," Mr. Kading said. "Yet homes in Bermuda have survived hundreds of years.

"Building codes are stringent, building materials are durable, window openings are protected and roofs are designed to resist wind lift. We know how to build strong homes and Florida also has very strong building codes.

"Improving the implementation and enforcement of these codes while taking tangible action to better safeguard Florida's families are the best ways to improve the sustainability of the Florida housing market."

Sen. George LeMieux, who represents Florida, has attracted ABIR's support for his legislation providing increased federal assistance for Americans seeking to "storm proof" their homes against hurricanes and other natural disaster losses.

"It's not widely understood that programmes that promote 'green' energy conservation measures for building structures, if designed appropriately, can also work effectively to strengthen homes and reduce potential storm damage from hurricanes," Mr. Kading said.

"The best way to protect people and property in Florida is to retrofit or build stronger, wind resistant homes. Grants such as those proposed by the Obama administration and expanded by Sen. LeMieux's new legislation will help to harden Florida homes, as well as stimulate jobs for thousands of contractors and other Florida workers."