But whether you’re supporting someone with cancer or any other illness, caregiving extends far beyond that.

The person who drives an ageing parent to appointments, organises medication, prepares meals, manages bills or simply checks in every day to make sure a loved one is safe may also be a caregiver, even if they have never thought of themselves that way.

The reason for that, is that the role develops so gradually that people don’t realise that they have stepped into it, explained Hayley Francis Cann, a client services associate at Age Concern Bermuda.

“What begins as helping with groceries or transportation often evolves into managing increasingly complex responsibilities,” she said.

“Most people simply see themselves as being a devoted spouse, adult child or friend, rather than someone undertaking a caregiving role.”

As those responsibilities grow, many people find themselves struggling.

“Many caregivers are balancing employment, raising children and supporting ageing parents at the same time,” Ms Francis Cann said.

“Coordinating appointments, understanding available services and making long-term care decisions can quickly become overwhelming.”

One of the biggest concerns is that caregivers often neglect themselves while looking after everyone else.

“It happens gradually. By the time the day ends, there is often very little time or energy left for exercise, social connections, hobbies or even booking their own medical appointments,” she said.

“Self-care isn’t ignored because it isn’t important; it simply gets pushed to the bottom of an ever-growing to-do list.”

Many people also struggle because they are unsure where to find support.

“They may not know what services are available, assume they won’t qualify, or feel they should be able to manage on their own. As a result, many continue carrying an increasing load until they reach a point of exhaustion, rather than accessing support earlier when it could make the greatest difference.”

Burnout often develops slowly. Early signs include constant fatigue, difficulty sleeping, increased irritability, withdrawing from friends and activities, experiencing anxiety and feeling low.

Ms Francis Cann encouraged caregivers to seek support before reaching a crisis point.

“Even small breaks, maintaining routine medical appointments, staying connected with supportive friends and making time for activities that restore energy can make a significant difference,” she said.

“Age Concern Bermuda offers information, guidance, education seminars, community programmes and referrals that help individuals navigate the challenges associated with ageing and caregiving.”

The cancer charity Pals Bermuda provides invaluable support to cancer patients and their families. Organisations suchas Bermuda Health Council, long-term care homes daycare and respite initiatives, other local charities and faith communities also play an important role in ensuring caregivers do not feel they have to face these challenges alone.

Ms Francis Cann acknowledged that asking for help is not always easy in Bermuda.

“Cultural values such as independence, resilience and taking care of one’s own family are deeply rooted and are often a source of strength. However, these same values can sometimes make it difficult for caregivers to seek support.”

Practical help from relatives, friends and employers can make a significant difference.

“Preparing a meal, providing transportation, helping with paperwork, sitting with a loved one for a few hours or offering flexible work arrangements can reduce stress considerably. Sometimes the most valuable question we can ask a caregiver is, ‘What can I take off your plate today?’”

The post Who cares for the caregiver? appeared first on RG Magazines.

Cancer had taken her mother and aunts, so she understood the importance of keeping a close watch on her own wellbeing.

As such, the diagnosis she received in 2014 came as a surprise: stage 3 aggressive breast cancer.

“It was shocking. And it was shocking because I thought I was doing all the right things,” Mrs Furbert said.

Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre was a huge source of support as she underwent surgery in Bermuda and spent several weeks being treated at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore.

Her Christian faith was equally important in helping Mrs Furbert, 76, come to terms with what lay ahead.

“I was devastated, but with the word of God, because of my belief, it helped me get through it.”

Her family, friends and church community rallied around her. One friend in Baltimore, Vanessa Moore, visited her at Johns Hopkins every single day.

“She spent those whole six to eight weeks with me out there in the hospital,” Mrs Furbert said. “Literally coming every day just to be my friend, just to be there for me.”

Another close friend, Janet Smith, was also by her side. Mrs Furbert finds it particularly poignant that Ms Smith has since died.

“She was there fighting with me for my life, and she’s already gone herself. So we just never know what we have in store in our lives.”

Loving care

Mrs Furbert remembers how kindly she was treated whenever she walked through the doors of Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre on Point Finger Road.

“I just know how much they just poured out and cared for me. They didn’t [treat me as if] I was just another person in there. They worked with me and talked with me and cared,” she said.

“And that was what I got — they cared about everybody that came in there, and they wanted to help. They wanted to do what they could do, and I’m grateful for that.”

She said the organisation is focused on ensuring everyone receives the care they need, regardless of their financial circumstances.

“They never turned me away. They just wanted to be sure that they could do the best they could for me.”

Although some days were difficult, Mrs Furbert was determined not to lose hope. She believes her optimism and positive mindset helped her through.

“The mind plays a part in your illness as well. I believe that if you’re down and you lose hope, that draws your body [down] too,” she said.

“Even though there were some hard days along the way I just kept praising God and my friends were praying too. I’m just truly thankful that I’m here today.”

Last month, more than a decade after her diagnosis, Mrs Furbert returned to the centre.

The staff she had known were not there, but she wanted the people now doing the work to know what it had meant to her.

“I just went in and I thanked them again because of what they did back in 2014,” she said. “I think thanking is very important, and I wanted to encourage them, to let them know that they [are appreciated].”

Paying it forward

Cancer also left Mrs Furbert with a greater awareness of the uncertainty of the future.

“It changed my life to a point. In a way it made me realise how life can be short, it can be long. You don’t know each day,” she said.

“It’s devastating when you get a scenario like that and you’re not sure what’s going on and how you’re going to do it, but it has made me a stronger individual.”

For someone who had already spent much of her life caring for others, that experience reinforced something that came naturally.

Mrs Furbert and her husband Alan raised 11 children between them. She has two biological children, her husband had two sons who came to live with them after they married, and together they fostered another seven.

That instinct to care for others continued long after their children became adults.

“I tend to help people,” she said. “I go to senior’s homes. I spend time with my neighbours who are seniors, even older than me, just to know that someone cares and that someone is there for them. Not everybody has somebody.”

Her own experience of needing other people only deepened that commitment.

“I’ve learned that even when I’m in pain, go to someone else who’s in pain because they need to know your story.”

Now in remission, Mrs Furbert is grateful to be able to live an active life.

“I can walk just like a 20-year-old, I can move about,” she said. “I’m just grateful that I’m here now and can continue to help others.”

When she hears that someone has cancer or is struggling, she will visit if she can, offer help and pray with them. Her cancer journey, she said, “just grew me to love even more and to care for others.”

Mrs Furbert believes cancer touches a significant number of families in Bermuda and that the island’s small size makes the work of organisations such as Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre particularly important.

“Cancer, for some reason, is a high situation in Bermuda and we’re such a small island. I’m just thankful for the part that they played in my journey.”

She hopes people and businesses able to support Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre will recognise the difference that support can make, particularly for people who may not have the network around them that she did.

“Many people don’t know where to go. This is an important aspect of lives being saved throughout Bermuda, lives being helped throughout Bermuda. Lives being given the chance, the opportunity to get help.”

More than a decade after her diagnosis, Mrs Furbert says the experience reinforced a lesson she now tries to put into practice every day.

“We have to realise that we’re here for a purpose, for a time. We don’t know what our time is, but we should use it wisely, use it in loving and caring for others.

“And that’s what I do.”

The post Strength after cancer appeared first on RG Magazines.

In Bermuda, where renovations aren’t always practical and moving isn’t always affordable, making the most of every square foot can make a surprising difference.

The good news is that creating more space often has less to do with buying a bigger home than using the one you already have more cleverly.

Ikea, the multinational home furnishing brand famous for designing and selling ready-to-assemble furniture, suggests looking upwards.

Using walls for storage can open up the space dramatically, particularly in kitchens and other compact rooms.

Cupboards themselves can often hold more than you think. Shelf risers create a second level for plates, mugs or pantry items, while stackable containers make better use of the full height of a shelf. In deeper cupboards, pull-out baskets can also make items stored at the back easier to reach.

Floating shelves, pegboards and wall hooks can all free up cupboards while keeping everyday items within easy reach. Tall bookcases and shelving units also make use of space that often goes unnoticed.

The furniture itself should also work harder.

Better Homes & Gardens magazine recommends choosing pieces that serve more than one purpose. A storage ottoman, for example, provides somewhere to sit while concealing belongings inside, while coffee tables with hidden compartments provide extra storage without taking up additional floor space.

Beds can also provide valuable storage. Built-in drawers are one option. Good Housekeeping magazine recommends using the space beneath a bed for things that are not needed every day — bulky bedding, out-of-season clothes, luggage and less frequently worn shoes.

Boxes on wheels make belongings easier to retrieve, while vacuum storage bags can reduce the amount of room taken up by bulky items.

Other unused spaces are worth considering too.

Better Homes & Gardens suggests attaching organisers to the inside of closet doors to hold smaller items. The tops of wardrobes can accommodate luggage or things used only occasionally, while hooks can turn otherwise empty walls or the backs of doors into useful storage.

Apartment Therapy, a home decor and lifestyle website that teaches readers how to organise and beautify their homes, suggests looking for storage that disappears when not in use. A wall-mounted drying rack, for example, can fold flat against the wall rather than permanently occupying valuable floor space.

Hooks near the front door can provide a home for keys, bags and coats, while drawer dividers can bring order to kitchens, bathrooms and desks. Good Housekeeping recommends baskets to make better use of awkward spaces, including the area beneath a bathroom sink.

Better Homes & Gardens recommends regularly removing things that are no longer used, while Good Housekeepingalso puts decluttering at the heart of organising a small space.

A cupboard full of gadgets that haven’t been used in years or clothes that no longer fit takes up valuable room, no matter how neatly everything is organised.

The aim isn’t necessarily to fill every available corner with storage. Leaving some surfaces clear and avoiding too much furniture can also make a small room feel less crowded.

The post Making space appeared first on RG Magazines.

When The Jetsons first appeared on television in 1962, Rosie the Robot was the family’s mechanical maid, cheerfully taking care of the housework in a future that seemed a long way off. Decades later, Pixar gave us Wall-E, a rather more endearing robot tasked with cleaning up an abandoned, rubbish-covered Earth.

More than 60 years after Rosie first picked up her feather duster, household robots have arrived, although not quite in the form The Jetsons imagined.

Rather than one humanoid machine doing everything, today’s robot helpers tend to specialise. While you’re at work, grocery store or the beach, they’re vacuuming your floors, mowing your lawns, cleaning windows, scrubbing swimming pools and even emptying your cat’s litter tray.

Robot vacuum cleaners are perhaps the most familiar example of how far the technology has come.

Early models had a reputation for wandering aimlessly around rooms before becoming trapped beneath sofas or tangled in charging cables. There were more spectacular mishaps too. In 2016, a family’s Roomba famously encountered a puppy’s overnight accident and, rather than avoiding it, proceeded to spread the mess around the house.

Today’s machines are considerably smarter. They use lasers, cameras and sensors to map homes, recognise obstacles and distinguish between carpets and hard floors. The best can navigate tight spaces and avoid obstacles such as extension cords, although even today’s models work better if clothes, toys and other objects are picked up before they start.

Keep it tidy

Consumer Reports, a US organisation that independently tests and rates products, puts robot vacuums through their paces in a miniature apartment containing the kinds of hazards they encounter in real homes. Technicians track their movements through several rooms and see whether they become trapped by cords or carpet fringe, can manoeuvre under furniture and successfully find their way around obstacles. They also test how well each machine picks up debris from carpets and bare floors, as well as pet hair.

Susan Booth, Consumer Reports’ lead vacuum test engineer, said the machines perform best in relatively tidy homes.

“Robotics are best for uncluttered rooms with bare floors or low-pile rugs,” she said.

Prices vary enormously depending on how much work you want your robot to do. At the more affordable end, the eufy Clean L60, available from Amazon and Target for approximately $200 to $250, offers laser-guided vacuuming without many of the extras found on premium machines.

Move up to the iRobot Roomba j7+, at around $399 to $599 from Amazon or Best Buy, and AI helps the machine recognise and avoid obstacles such as power cords and pet waste, while its dock automatically empties the dustbin.

For those who want to outsource mopping as well, the Roborock Qrevo S, about $650 to $799 from Amazon or Best Buy, has spinning mop pads that lift when it reaches carpet and a dock that washes the mops after use. At the luxury end, the Ecovacs Deebot X8 Pro Omni, approximately $999 to $1,200 from Amazon or Ecovacs, uses a roller mop that continually cleans itself while scrubbing hard floors.

Despite all those advances, Consumer Reports says robot vacuums are still better viewed as a complement to regular vacuuming than a complete replacement for it. Its testing found the machines useful for “regular touch-ups and spot-cleaning”, but traditional upright and canister vacuums remain more powerful.

For many households, the appeal is having a machine that can keep on top of everyday cleaning with relatively little input.

Outdoors

For anyone who loves that idea, today’s robots are taking on jobs beyond the living room.

Robot lawnmowers have become increasingly sophisticated. Rather than waiting for the grass to become overgrown, they trim a little every day, producing tiny clippings that naturally fertilise the lawn.

Many premium models use cameras, GPS and satellite navigation to find their way around lawns and avoid obstacles with little human intervention. Ideal for keeping that Bermuda cane grass at bay!

One example is the Mammotion Luba Mini 2 AWD, which costs approximately $1,399 to $1,599 and is available through Amazon and Home Depot online. Its all-wheel-drive system is designed to cope with uneven terrain and slopes, while two cutting discs tackle the grass without the need for a perimeter wire.

Window cleaning is another chore being handed over to machines.

Robot window cleaners cling to glass using powerful suction before methodically working their way across the surface. The Ecovacs Winbot W2S Omni, available from Amazon and Ecovacs for approximately $550 to $650, uses spray nozzles to wash the glass and includes a safety system designed to keep it attached while tackling large or difficult-to-reach windows.

Pool owners are also discovering robotic helpers.

Robotic pool cleaners can vacuum debris, scrub floors and, depending on the model, climb walls and clean the waterline automatically.

The Dolphin Escape, costing around $650 to $700 and available through Amazon, uses tracks and an active scrubbing brush to tackle dirt and debris on pool floors.

The cordless Spino E1, meanwhile, costs approximately $699 to $799 on Amazon and is designed to clean the floor, climb walls and tackle the waterline without a power cable trailing behind it.

Pet owners have their own growing selection of robotic assistants. Automatic litter boxes use sensors to detect when a cat has finished before separating waste into a compartment, while robot vacuums can quietly collect pet hair every day before it has a chance to accumulate.

Robots aren’t yet completely hands-free — or foolproof.

Filters still need replacing, brushes need cleaning and waste containers need emptying. Sensors also need to be kept clean if they are to “see” obstacles properly.

Safety testing has evolved alongside the machines. UL Solutions, a global safety science company, tests and certifies different types of consumer robots against standards covering electrical and mechanical safety, batteries and other potential hazards.

The technology continues to develop. Manufacturers are experimenting with machines capable of recognising more objects, learning routines and even using robotic arms to move obstacles before cleaning begins.

A Rosie capable of doing all the housework isn’t on the market just yet, but today’s robots are proving they don’t need arms, legs or a personality to make life easier.

The post Robots to the rescue appeared first on RG Magazines.

Lisa Osborne spent nearly 30 years at Bermuda College before deciding to take on a new role as an entrepreneur.

Through her business, Dr Lisa Osborne – Global Pathways, she offers classes in English as a second language, academic coaching, life and career transition support, as well as guidance for women interested in solo travel.

“Basically, I’m doing what I’ve always wanted to do, but on my own time, and being able to fully dive into what I believe is part of the reason why I’m here, my mission here on the earth,” she said.

For anyone thinking about starting a business, Dr Osborne warned that entrepreneurship can be very demanding.

“You’ve got to work on your mindset,” she said. “It’s a shift. And I didn’t realise just how much of a shift it was going to be.”

One of the biggest adjustments is learning how to manage your own time and remain disciplined without the structure of a traditional workplace.

“When you have a job, everything’s spelled out. They want you to do this. They want you to arrive at this time. You can leave at certain times, they tell you when you can take your break,” she said.

“When you’re an entrepreneur, you decide, you choose. But having that power to make those decisions – you’ve got to have your time management sorted.”

To stay organised, Dr Osborne plans her schedule carefully and uses digital productivity tools to keep herself on track.

“Every Monday, I sit down and I map out what I am doing for the week,” she said. “If you expect your business to survive, you’ve got to be disciplined.”

She encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs to seek guidance rather than assuming they should already know how to handle every aspect of running a business.

“I submitted my registration for payroll taxes — I had to get advice on that. I went straight to the Tax Commissioner’s office, I had a meeting with a representative at the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation and that helped me tremendously,” she said.

“You have to put the pride aside and you have to reach out and ask questions.”

She believes mindset and confidence are just as important as business planning, particularly during the early stages when uncertainty and self-doubt can easily take hold.

“You’re going to encounter naysayers,” she said. “Even within yourself you’re going to experience times when you’re feeling a little doubtful. ‘Do I really have what it takes? Is this really going to work?’”

Her advice is to protect new ideas while they are still developing and focus on building skills and confidence quietly behind the scenes.

“At the very initial stage, when it’s a seed, don’t tell everybody what you’re doing,” she said. “Keep it to yourself and grow it. Grow yourself.”

Part of that growth, she said, involves continuing to learn and invest in yourself. Alongside her doctorate in education, Dr Osborne completed additional certifications in teaching English as a second language and life coaching to expand the services she could offer through her business.

“Go out and get the training that you need,” she said.

Despite the challenges that come with entrepreneurship, Dr Osborne said the experience has also been deeply rewarding because it allows her to fully focus on work that aligns with her purpose.

“These are things that I was doing for somebody else,” she said. “Now I get to do it for myself. I get to take the ownership.”

The post Lessons in entrepreneurship appeared first on RG Magazines.

Few people understand that energy better than local DJ and entertainer Rusty G, who is thrilled by the prospects of this year’s line-up of events.

“This summer honestly feels like one of the biggest in recent memory,” he said. “There are tons of amazing events going on and I’m particularly excited about the concerts happening around Cup Match.”

Among the headline events are performances by dancehall artist Mavado and Trinidadian soca favourites Kes the Band, both set to perform during the lead-up to and around our favourite national holiday.

“Mavado on July 25 and Kes on July 29, plus Cup Match staples like Wete Fete and Bacchanal Run, means the week is going to be action packed,” Rusty G said.

Kes the Band are no strangers to Bermuda audiences, having previously performed on the island during the 2017 America’s Cup celebrations. At the time, lead singer Kees Dieffenthaller described Bermuda as a “beautiful place” and praised the island’s crowd energy.

For Rusty G, local audiences bring a unique atmosphere that performers genuinely look forward to experiencing.

“Bermuda really comes alive in the summer,” he said. “There’s a different energy in the people that I can’t really explain.”

That atmosphere becomes especially noticeable around Cup Match, when the island’s social scene shifts into high gear. From large concerts to beach events and late-night parties, live entertainment becomes a major part of the holiday experience.

For entertainers, reading that energy and responding to it is part of the job. Rusty G believes strong performances and consistency are what help artists and DJs stand out in Bermuda’s competitive entertainment scene.

“There’s a lot of ways that entertainers build their brands,” he said in a previous interview with The Royal Gazette. “I always just try to make sure that I give really strong, energetic stage performances.”

Preparation, he added, is equally important — especially when performing for crowds with high expectations.

“You’ve got to do your homework before you go,” he said. “Ask other DJs and artists and the promoters what kind of vibes are people expecting. And then do your homework and just pay attention and make sure that you’re on point when you get there.”

Social media has also played a growing role in helping local entertainers expand beyond Bermuda. According to Rusty G, it has helped introduce his work to international audiences and led to opportunities overseas.

“Clips of my performances in Bermuda ended up growing my social media and people in other places saw them and decided to book me. So, it’s all that put together, and just being consistent I guess.”

Still, Bermuda remains one of his favourite places to perform, particularly during the summer season when music and celebration become part of everyday island life.

With thousands expected to attend concerts and events over the Cup Match period, Rusty G believes this summer could be one to remember.

Mavado will perform in Bermuda on Saturday, July 25. For tickets, visit gpass.bm. Cup Match Ignite featuring Kes the Band takes place on Wednesday, July 29, the day before Cup Match. Tickets are available at Ptix.bm. Both concerts will take place at the National Stadium.

The post Summer sounds appeared first on RG Magazines.

One is constantly moving; the other may barely leave his chair. Yet both can end up with aches, pains and posture problems.

Betty Doyling of B Active for Life believes it is because they often make the same mistake: they separate fitness from everyday movement.

“When people think about fitness, they’re always separating it from everyday life,” she said. “But the trick of it is however we move from day to day, it affects our health.”

People in physically demanding jobs often assume that hours spent lifting, pushing, pulling and working in the heat amount to a workout. But physical labour, Ms Doyling said, is different from exercise designed to build strength, improve movement and protect the body.

After 15 years as a certified personal trainer, working with everyone from labourers to office workers, she knows changing that mindset is easier said than done.

It is an ongoing debate she has with a baggage handler at LF Wade International Airport, who insists the job provides all the exercise she needs. Ms Doyling disagrees.

“It is strengthening somewhat, but you’re not learning the correct form, you’re just yanking it. You’re not using your core, you’re just trying to get the job done,” she said.

She offers a similar warning to construction workers and other labourers: bending to lift heavy objects without engaging the muscles that support the spine increases the risk of injury.

Repetitive movements can also take their toll. Over time, favouring one side of the body, reaching with the same arm or lifting awkwardly can lead to wrist, elbow and shoulder injuries. Learning to use the legs and hips instead of relying solely on the back or upper body can help reduce that strain, Ms Doyling said.

Build your core strength

Core strength is where she starts with many clients, regardless of whether they work behind a desk or outdoors.

“A strong core helps protect the back,” she explained.

For labourers, that means building strength in the muscles that support the spine, as well as in the arms, legs and hips. The aim is not simply to lift heavier weights in a gym, but to help the body cope with the demands of work and reduce the risk of injury from poor movement patterns.

Office workers face a different problem. Tight hips, weakened glutes and rounded shoulders are all common complaints among people who spend eight to ten hours a day sitting in a chair.

“Your body adapts to whatever you do most,” Ms Doyling said. “If you’re spending most of your day sitting, then your body is just sufficient at that.”

Short walks, regular breaks from the desk and a consistent strength-training programme can help counter some of those effects. Men in particular, she said, often struggle with hip mobility and posture after years at a desk.

Her focus with clients is strength rather than cardio. While cardiovascular exercise has obvious benefits, maintaining muscle is essential for people to function well as they age because strength supports balance, mobility and resilience. The point is to make movement safer, whether that means learning how to brace before lifting, waking up the glutes after years of sitting, or correcting habits before they become painful over time at work and home.

“Strength is basically the building blocks of your muscle. You have to strength train,” she said. “If we have a fall and we have muscles, we’re not just going to break into pieces.”

Act now!

For many middle-aged men, fitness becomes a priority only after something goes wrong. She recommends strength training at least twice a week, beginning with the core.

“Most women work out because they want to lose fat,” she said. “Men, a lot of their focus tends to [come only] after something happens.”

Back pain, knee problems and high blood pressure are often what finally prompt a trip to the gym. Even then, exercising without instruction can create problems of its own.

Trying to lift too much weight too quickly is among the most common mistakes Ms Doyling sees. Skipping warm-ups, ignoring mobility work and relying on the same routines year after year can stall progress and increase the risk of injury.

“Their ego gets in the way of proper form,” she said.

Too often, men train only the “mirror muscles”, prioritising chest, arms and shoulders while neglecting the muscles that provide stability and support.

Strong legs and glutes are just as important, Ms Doyling said. Long hours sitting or bending over at work can weaken muscles and affect posture and mobility. If those imbalances are ignored, discomfort can build gradually until it interferes with ordinary movement.

Many men assume they already know enough and resist changing their routines. But bodies adapt, and what worked years ago may no longer deliver benefits. Her advice is simple: ask for help before pain forces the issue.

Her clients are guided according to their individual needs, including whether they spend their work hours seated or in physically demanding jobs. Designing workouts around how people move during the day is part of the process. Group classes, combinations of weights and cardio and different forms of exercise can all challenge the body in new ways.

“Our bodies are wanting change,” she said. “Consistency matters more than perfection.”

The post Fit for the job appeared first on RG Magazines.

Every year from June through November, we prepare our homes, stock up on supplies and monitor weather forecasts whenever a storm approaches the island.

Though it is important to focus on our families and property, we should also prepare for the safety and wellbeing of pets.

From dogs and cats to horses, rabbits, gerbils and hamsters, hurricanes can cause animals stress and, in worst case scenarios, lead to injury or illness and separate them from the people who love them. Understanding the risks can help ensure every member of the family stays safe.

Dogs

Dogs are often highly sensitive to approaching storms. Changes in air pressure, strong winds and thunder can trigger anxiety long before a hurricane makes landfall. During severe weather, frightened dogs may hide, pace, bark excessively or attempt to escape.

Although most dogs will be kept safely indoors during a severe storm, the period immediately before – and especially after a storm – can present risks.

The Bermuda SPCA advises that dogs should be microchipped and wear collars with up-to-date identification.

Damaged fences, broken gates and disrupted routines may create opportunities for dogs to escape once they are taken outside, while the unfamiliar sights and smells left behind by a hurricane can cause them to become disoriented.

Meanwhile, as Bermuda’s post-storm landscape can include fallen power lines, broken glass, roofing debris and contaminated standing water, dogs should remain on a leash until owners have fully assessed their surroundings.

Emergency preparedness is essential. Make sure you keep at least a week’s supply of food, bottled water, medications and veterinary records readily available.

Cats

Cats often react differently to hurricanes than dogs, but they are equally vulnerable. Many cats seek out hiding places when frightened, making it difficult to locate them quickly if an emergency evacuation becomes necessary.

Veterinarians and animal welfare experts recommend keeping cats indoors well before tropical-storm-force winds arrive. Cats should then be kept inside until storm conditions have completely passed and damaged areas have been secured.

Strong winds and flooding can alter familiar scents and landmarks, making it easier for cats to become disoriented and lost. In the aftermath of a hurricane, a frightened cat can quickly disappear into debris piles, damaged buildings or overgrown areas.

Horses

Horses face some of the greatest hurricane-related risks because of their size and housing requirements. Strong winds can damage stables, while flying debris can cause serious injury. Flooding may contaminate feed and water supplies and make paddocks unsafe.

For Bermuda’s equestrian community, hurricane preparedness requires careful planning. Owners should inspect stables before the season begins, secure loose equipment and identify safe sheltering options. If relocation is necessary, transportation arrangements should be made well in advance rather than waiting until a storm is imminent.

Even after a hurricane has passed, horses remain vulnerable. Damaged fencing, fallen trees, exposed nails and debris can all pose hazards. Waterlogged pastures may also conceal dangerous objects.

Owners should keep copies of veterinary records, identification photographs and emergency contact information in waterproof containers. Having a sufficient supply of feed, water and any necessary medication on hand is also critical.

Rabbits

Rabbits are particularly vulnerable during hurricanes because they are highly susceptible to stress. Loud winds, thunder and prolonged storm conditions can cause extreme fear, which in some cases may lead to shock or serious health complications.

Outdoor rabbits housed in hutches face additional dangers during hurricanes. Strong winds can damage enclosures, while heavy rain and flying debris may leave them exposed to injury and the elements. Because domestic rabbits are largely dependent on human care, owners should always bring them indoors before a storm arrives.

Once inside, rabbits should be kept in a secure carrier or indoor enclosure in the safest part of the home. Owners should also ensure they have at least seven days’ worth of food, water, bedding and any required medication available.

Veterinary services may be disrupted after a major hurricane, so it is advisable to keep medical records and emergency contact information readily accessible. Familiar toys, blankets and bedding can help reduce stress during extended periods indoors.

Gerbils and hamsters

Gerbils and hamsters face unique challenges during hurricanes. Their small size makes them particularly vulnerable to environmental changes such as fluctuations in temperature caused by prolonged power outages.

These animals can also become stressed by the noise and disruption associated with severe weather. Thunder, strong winds, generators and post-storm repair work may cause anxiety, making it important to keep cages in a quiet, secure area of the home.

Owners should ensure they have sufficient supplies to care for gerbils and hamsters during and after a storm, including food, fresh water, bedding and any required medication.

Road and store closures can make it difficult to replace essential items at short notice. Maintaining normal feeding schedules and daily routines as much as possible can also help reduce stress.

Preparation saves lives

One message is consistent across animal welfare organisations: pets should never be left outside to fend for themselves during a hurricane. Every animal, regardless of size or species, should be provided with a safe and secure environment before storm conditions begin.

For Bermuda’s pet owners, preparation means more than simply storing extra food. It means having carriers ready, maintaining current veterinary records, ensuring identification is up to date and planning for the possibility of extended power outages.

Hurricanes are an unavoidable part of island life, but with proper planning and responsible care, pets can weather the storm safely alongside the families who depend on them.

The post Keeping pets safe appeared first on RG Magazines.

The change to warmer weather naturally invites lighter textures, brighter colours and a more relaxed atmosphere indoors.

Jennifer Dearing, senior interior designer at Hamma Galleries, says even small updates can make a home feel completely transformed for the months ahead.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity to declutter your space and take inventory of the items you already own,” she said.

One of the easiest seasonal updates is swapping out heavier winter accessories.

Ms Dearing suggests packing away thick throw blankets and replacing them with lightweight, breathable options better suited to Bermuda’s summer evenings. She added that changing smaller soft furnishings can dramatically alter the overall feeling of a room without requiring a major investment.

Replacing darker tones with softer seasonal colours can also dramatically shift the mood of a room. Lightweight fabrics and natural textures instantly create a brighter, more cheerful environment, particularly in living rooms and bedrooms.

“A simple way to refresh your décor is by changing your pillows to lighter fabrics and colours,” she said. “It immediately enhances the airy feel of the space.”

Adding floral accents is another favourite summer update. Whether using fresh flowers or faux stems, bringing touches of nature indoors creates a lively and welcoming atmosphere.

Incorporating pops of colour and greenery throughout the home can help spaces feel brighter, fresher and more connected to Bermuda’s outdoor beauty during the summer months.

Bold and beautiful

This summer’s decorating trends embrace relaxed, natural living, but include a few bold twists. One of the season’s standout looks is oversized or dramatic patterns that bring personality and movement into a space.

“Bold stripes are definitely making a statement this summer,” Ms Dearing said.

Rattan remains a perennial favourite during the warmer months. Made from woven natural fibres, it works beautifully in both furniture and decorative accessories, adding texture and an effortless tropical feel that, for obvious reasons, suits Bermuda homes especially well.

Natural unfinished materials are also having a major moment this summer, with plaster, cement, sculptural stone and rich wood tones appearing throughout both furniture and decorative accessories.

Ms Dearing said these organic finishes help create interiors that feel layered and relaxed while still maintaining a sophisticated look.

Outdoor entertaining continues to shape many summer decorating choices too. Portable and rechargeable LED lamps are proving especially popular, offering soft ambient lighting for outdoor dinners and gatherings.

“They’re not only beautiful for entertaining outdoors, but incredibly practical in Bermuda during hurricane season as backup lighting,” Ms Dearing noted.

Versatile pieces which combine style and practicality are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners looking to make the most of both indoor and outdoor spaces during the season.

When it comes to creating a brighter summer look, she often turns to the island’s landscape for ideas.

“I love finding inspiration in nature, especially during the spring and summer,” she said.

The island’s gardens and coastline are full of soft greens and blues, while brighter tropical colours like turquoise, hot pink and coral red can be found in Bermuda’s hibiscus flowers, bougainvillea, pastel cottages and clear coastal waters.

“These cheerful colours are everywhere in Bermuda and can really energise your home décor,” Ms Dearing said.

Texture also plays an important role in making interiors feel cooler and more relaxed during the summer. Lighter woven fabrics, natural fibres and breezy linens all help create a softer, more inviting environment.

The team at Hamma works closely with clients to incorporate those seasonal touches through custom pillows, window coverings and upholstery projects.

As the exclusive distributor of fabrics from Colefax and Fowler — the celebrated British design house known for its timeless English country style — Hamma Galleries offers a wide range of options for homeowners looking to create a lighter summer feel indoors. Ms Dearing said the fabrics help “bring that outdoor beauty inside”.

Don’t go overboard

While seasonal decorating can be exciting, Ms Dearing encourages homeowners to avoid leaning too heavily into one particular look.

“It’s great to express yourself through your home décor but try not to go overboard with one specific theme,” she advised.

Although adding a few nautical accents can work beautifully in a Bermuda home, filling an entire room with boats, rope, coral and seashells can quickly feel overwhelming, she cautioned.

Instead, she recommends choosing pieces thoughtfully and focusing on items that genuinely resonate with your personal style. She believes seasonal decorating works best when it complements a home’s existing character rather than completely transforming it for a short period of time.

Bedrooms are another area where simple seasonal updates can make a noticeable difference, particularly when it comes to comfort during Bermuda’s warmer weather.

Ms Dearing recommends switching to lighter, breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen and reconsidering heavy bedding altogether.

“Instead of using your winter duvet, consider using a throw or quilt, or simply remove the duvet from its cover and use just the cover,” she suggested.

Light colours also help bedrooms feel cooler and calmer throughout the season. Crisp whites and softer neutral tones can create a hotel-inspired look while still feeling comfortable and relaxed.

“I personally prefer simple white sheets paired with a lumbar pillow to add a pop of colour,” she said. “The lumbar pillow can be easily switched out seasonally to refresh your space.”

Ultimately, Ms Dearing believes giving your home a summer feel doesn’t require a complete redesign or major investment. Often, the smallest changes can have the biggest impact.

She encourages homeowners to focus on selecting pieces they genuinely love rather than decorating solely for a particular season or trend, creating spaces that feel timeless as well as personal.

“Your home should reflect your personality and the things that make you feel happy,” she said.

The post Summer refresh appeared first on RG Magazines.

The company describes hurricane preparedness as a year-round effort involving training, planning and maintaining critical supplies and equipment.

“Throughout the year, the operations team monitors and maintains supply levels, ensuring that essential materials such as poles, transformers, fuses, and conductor wire are stocked and ready to deploy,” explained Shelly Leman, the utility company’s managing director.

“Line crews undergo regular training to ensure they are prepared to respond safely and efficiently when a storm hits.”

Belco’s Crisis Management Team formally reviews emergency procedures, confirms staffing assignments and ensures that restoration plans are up to date ahead of the start of hurricane season each June.

The review involves departments across the organisation, each of which is assigned specific responsibilities in the event of a major storm.

According to Ms Leman, preparation extends beyond planning documents. Supplies such as poles, transformers, conductor wire and fuses are checked and positioned in strategic locations around the island to support restoration efforts if required. Additional equipment, including protective gear and hand tools, is also prepared in advance.

Time to step up

When a tropical storm or hurricane is named and poses a potential threat to Bermuda, additional response measures are activated — the crisis management team liaises with emergency services, while crews and equipment are positioned across the island in anticipation of possible damage.

“Crews are put on alert in order to begin restoration procedures as soon as storm conditions subside,” Ms Leman said.

She added that the vehicle fleet is fully charged, fuelled and stocked with the necessary tools and equipment required for restoring power.

The company encourages all residents, even members of its team, to remain indoors during severe weather. Crews are sent out to begin repairs only once the worst of the storm has passed and conditions are considered safe.

“Safety is the overriding factor in this decision, and crews will not be deployed until conditions allow them to work without undue risk,” Ms Leman said.

“The operations team makes this call based on current weather conditions and guidance from the Emergency Measures Organisation.”

Keeping us informed

Communication with the public during and after a storm is key. Outage and restoration updates are provided through Belco’s website and social media channels. The company also uses local media to keep residents informed.

“In any storm the loss of power is possible. Belco advises all medical device-dependent customers to discuss emergency plans with their physician or health representative beforehand and make appropriate arrangements,” Ms Leman said.

“Belco can never guarantee restoration time to a home or business.”

The first step once a storm has passed is a full assessment of the network. More than 90 per cent of customers have an AMI smart meter installed which relays outages to Belco in real time.

Crews are deployed across the island to survey damage to the electricity infrastructure and identify priorities for restoration. Retirees can be called in to help if there has been severe damage.

Through its Carilec membership, Belco received assistance from other Caribbean utilities with repairs following Hurricanes Fay and Gonzalo in 2014; Belco crews have also travelled to assist restoration efforts in places such as Jamaica and the British Virgin Islands after severe weather events.

“The order of restoration is as follows: main circuits, branch lines and then individual customers. Repairs must be completed in this order because main lines feed all other lines,” Ms Leman said.

“An individual customer in the middle or at the end of a branch line cannot receive electricity until all of the repairs between their property and the main power supply have been made.”

Safety first

Belco prioritises repairs that are expected to restore service to the largest number of customers. As restoration efforts can sometimes involve long hours, rest periods are incorporated.

“During a major storm restoration, Belco crews work from 8am to midnight, a 16-hour window that reflects the scale and urgency of the work required,” Ms Leman said. “Rest periods are built into the schedule and are not optional. Fatigue is a serious safety risk when working with live electricity infrastructure, and Belco is committed to ensuring that every crew member is alert and fit to work before they are deployed.”

Public co-operation plays an important role both in reducing storm-related outages and supporting safe restoration efforts once severe weather has passed.

Belco asks residents to inspect their properties for signs of electrical damage and to exercise caution at all times, avoiding downed wires or debris that could conceal live electrical equipment.

Keeping trees and bushes well clear of power lines is one of the most important steps property owners can take to help reduce the risk of losing electricity.

“If customers wish to reduce their chances of a power outage during a storm it is critically important to trim their trees at least 10 feet from any power lines,” Ms Leman said.

That will help prevent branches from causing power lines to touch together, causing them to short out or by pulling down power lines, which poses a serious safety risk to the public.

Improperly connected generators present a serious risk.

“A significant danger to Belco crews is when customer generators are improperly connected to a home or business,” Ms Leman said.

“If a generator is improperly connected to the electrical system, it can feed power back down a line that Belco staff may be working on, who believe the wires are not live. This can pose a dangerous electrocution hazard.”

The post Ready before the storm appeared first on RG Magazines.