FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 7, 2025

City of Morgantown Celebrates Building Safety Month 2025

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Throughout the month of May, the City of Morgantown will participate in the 45th annual Building Safety Month, a global campaign organized by the International Code Council, its members, and partners to promote building safety. This year’s theme, “Game On!” encourages community engagement in all aspects of building safety, highlighting the connection between building codes, personal safety, and the vital work of building safety professionals.

Building Safety Month raises awareness of how building safety impacts individuals on personal, local, and global levels. The campaign will unfold as follows:

• Week 1: The Warm Up (May 1–3) – Focuses on how building safety affects our daily lives, including the environments where we work, learn, and play.

• Week 2: Build Your Offense (May 4–10) – Encourages community members to develop plans that actively support building safety programs.

• Week 3: Build Your Defense (May 11–17) – Prepares residents for natural hazards such as severe weather and wildfires, featuring disaster toolkits.

• Week 4: The Starting Lineup (May 18–24) – Offers opportunities to meet building safety professionals and explore rewarding careers in the field.

• Week 5: Long-term Planning (May 25–31) – Looks ahead at future trends in the building safety industry, including advancements in technology and artificial intelligence.

Chief Building Official Drew Cantis shared his thoughts about building safety. "It's all about safety and customer service," Cantis explained. "Our services are vital in maintaining the integrity, longevity, and usability of our community's homes, buildings, and property areas. Everything we do is for the well-being of our residents, business owners, and visitors." 

Director of Development Services Rickie Yeager also expressed his appreciation for Building Safety Month and highlighted the significance of the services provided by the City of Morgantown.

“Building Safety Month is an important reminder of the role that building codes and safety measures play in protecting our community,” said Yeager. “As we engage with our residents, we want them to know that we are constantly working to improve development processes while emphasizing the importance of building safety. I am extremely proud of all of our team members who work tirelessly to ensure our community is safe and secure.”

For more information about Building Safety Month, visit www.buildingsafetymonth.org or join the conversation on social media using #BuildingSafety365 or visit www.morgantownwv.gov.

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