Residents were asked by Belco to prepare for severe weather after the beginning of hurricane season this month and particularly to consider if trees needed trimming.

The power company said yesterday that it was “taking all the necessary steps” to be ready in case the island was hit by a storm.

Belco said: “Ensuring that trees on private property remain ten feet away from power lines is the sole responsibility of property owners.

“Trimming trees at least ten feet back from power lines in advance of the approach of any storms will prevent branches from pulling down power lines, which poses a serious safety risk to the public.

“Additionally, it can increase the risk of one of the most inconvenient parts of a hurricane, losing your electricity, as most outages in Bermuda are caused by vegetation falling on power lines, even in years where Bermuda avoids a direct hit from a storm.”

The company added: “Should property owners wish to trim their trees, it is critically important to remember that a power line’s electricity must be disconnected before trimming trees next to it.”

To schedule a temporary disconnection for tree-trimming safety, owners can call Belco at 295-5111 or e-mail treetrimming@belco.bm three weeks in advance of the planned work.

Belco highlighted: “Hurricane season is now under way, so now is the time to make sure that trees are clear of any power lines.”

Shelly Leman, the company’s managing director, said: “Our team at Belco are well prepared for any storms that may impact us this season.

“I encourage the public to begin their hurricane preparations well in advance and ensure that trees are trimmed back at least ten feet from power lines.

“Please be proactive and keep your vegetation managed this hurricane season.”