May is Building Safety Month, and in Botetourt County, the focus is on keeping homes, businesses, and the broader community safe – one project at a time. Whether working as a seasoned contractor or tackling a first DIY project, resources are available to support every step of the process.
Building Safety Month is an international campaign from the International Code Council, celebrated each May to raise awareness about building safety. Botetourt County will collaborate with the ICC to localize the weekly themes and will also launch a “Building in BOCO” video to guide residents in starting their building projects.
The 2025 campaign, titled “Game On!”, features the following weekly themes:
- Week 1: The Warm Up
Explore how building safety impacts everyday life, including workplaces, schools, and recreational spaces. - Week 2: Build Your Offense
Learn how to develop a proactive plan to support building safety programs in the community. - Week 3: Build Your Defense
Stay prepared for natural hazards such as severe weather, wildfires, and earthquakes with dedicated disaster toolkits. - Week 4: The Starting Lineup
Get to know building safety professionals and discover career opportunities in the building safety industry. - Week 5: Going Into Overtime
Take a look at the future of building safety, including emerging global trends, artificial intelligence, and more.
On Monday, May 19, the public is invited to attend Botetourt County’s first Building Safety Month Open House & Training Session at the Botetourt County Admin Center in Daleville. Doors open at 2:30 p.m. The event will feature presentations from community development and building experts, highlighting significant changes in the 2021 Virginia Residential Code. This free event is ideal for contractors and DIY enthusiasts, offering opportunities for networking, refreshments from The Fishn’ Pig, and more.
Special thanks to Capps Home Building Center in Troutville, the event’s platinum sponsor.
For more information and to RSVP, visit www.botetourtva.gov/buildingsafety.
~ Fincastle Herald staff report
