May is now officially Building Safety Month in Palm Beach County, declared by county commissioners during a meeting on May 7, as part of the 44th Annual Building Safety Month. Echoing the worldwide campaign spearheaded by the International Code Council, this year's theme, "Mission Possible," aims to shed light on the critical role of building codes and the individuals who enforce them in ensuring personal and community safety.

The proclamation, acknowledging the imperative of such initiatives, doesn't take lightly the myriad ways in which attention to building safety manifests, from the often-overlooked caution against overloading electrical outlets to the oversight of enforcing construction standards that guard against the sort of catastrophes that can lead from inclement weather events, including floods. According to Palm Beach County official website, Whitney Carroll, Planning, Zoning and Building Executive Director noted, "Building safety is essential for everyone, and it includes simple measures such as not overloading electrical outlets and the safe operation of a portable gas-powered generator."

Encouragement also came from Planning, Zoning and Building's Building Division Director Doug Wise, who lauded the community for its appreciation of sturdy, durable construction where people "live, work, play and learn." The efforts of dedicated professionals in the building safety industry do not escape him, as Wise proclaimed, "We also recognize efforts of our professionals who diligently work each day within the building safety industry." And as the keystone, the community's unwavering commitment to robust infrastructure stands tall, supported by the dedicated people behind the scenes, according to Palm Beach County.

The county's Planning, Zoning and Building's Building Division, together with Contractors Certification and Code Enforcement divisions, strive to ensure structural integrity and safety across the greater Palm Beach area, a collaborative endeavor to safeguard residents from the potential perils entrenched in the built environment. More details about the county's building safety initiatives and educational information throughout Building Safety Month are available on the Palm Beach County's website.