Manatee County Urges Public to Stay Clear of Damaged Structures Post-Hurricane Milton

• Do Not Enter Damaged Buildings: Residents should refrain from entering any homes or buildings that have suffered visible damage, such as collapsed walls, roofs, or flooding, until a formal safety inspection has been completed.

MANATEE COUNTY—In the wake of Hurricane Milton, Manatee County strongly advises all residents to avoid entering damaged buildings and homes until certified professionals have inspected them. Structural damage caused by the storm may not always be visible, posing significant risks to those who attempt to enter too soon.

Always Put Safety First:

• Signs of Instability: Be vigilant for signs of instability, including leaning walls, cracked foundations, or sagging roofs. These indicators can point to a high risk of collapse, even if the building appears to be stable at first glance.

• Structural Assessments Required: [City/Organization Name] has dispatched professional inspectors to assess the safety of homes and buildings throughout the affected area. Residents should wait for the official green light from inspectors before re-entering any damaged structure.
• Safety Hazards: Beyond structural integrity, damaged buildings may have compromised electrical wiring, gas leaks, or other hazards that can put lives at risk.

• Stay Alert: Do not ignore signs of damage, even minor ones. Small cracks or tilts may signal larger, hidden damage.
• Report Unsafe Buildings: If you encounter a building or home that appears unsafe or is at risk of collapse, immediately report it to [Local Authority Name] or call [City Hotline/Local Emergency Number].

As recovery efforts continue, the safety of residents and visitors is a top priority. Manatee County will continue to keep the public updated as damage assessments are completed and when it is safe to re-enter homes and buildings. We urge all residents to exercise caution and patience during this time.

Please continue to monitor local news and weather broadcasts as well as the County's social media accounts for updates. Official storm information from Manatee County at is always updated at mymanatee.org/storm.