Manatee County Public Safety Department

Burn ban in effect

A countywide burn ban is now in effect due to ongoing hot and dry weather conditions and an elevated wildfire risk.

The burn ban includes fireworks, sparklers, flares, open burning, campfires and other products containing explosive or pyrotechnic materials.

Previously permitted public fireworks displays will continue as scheduled and remain subject to existing fire safety requirements.

What activities are allowed under the burn ban?

• Outdoor cookers or grills, as long as they are attended by a responsible adult while in use

• Liquefied petroleum gas devices such as grills, camp stoves and fire pits, as long as they are attended by a responsible adult while in use

• Properly permitted public fireworks displays with adequate fire suppression equipment and personnel on site

• Florida Forest Service authorized agricultural, silvicultural and land-clearing burns

• Flares discharged over the gulf

It only takes one spark to start a wildfire under these conditions. Please do your part to help keep our community safe.

📢 Training Notice

On Tuesday (June 23), residents may notice an increased presence of law enforcement, fire rescue, EMS and other public safety personnel at Braden River Middle School and Bayside Community Church (SR 64).

This is part of a planned, multi-agency training exercise designed to help our teams prepare for emergencies and strengthen coordination among partner agencies.

There is no threat to the public.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as our local agencies train together to better serve our community.

From responding to emergencies to stepping onto the mound. ⚾

Congratulations to EMS Paramedic of the Year, Chad Mower, who threw out the first pitch at Friday night's Bradenton Marauders game at LECOM Park during First Responders Appreciation Night.

We’re proud to see Chad represent Manatee County EMS and all of the first responders who work every day to serve our community.

And, of course, Sei made a special stop at the ballpark too. 🐾

Thank you to the Bradenton Marauders for recognizing the dedication and service of our first responders.

On Wednesday alone, our Beach Patrol team responded to 18 rescues involving more than 30 beachgoers.

We're grateful for the quick actions and dedication of our lifeguards, who safely assisted swimmers throughout the day. Several of these rescues were related to rip currents, strong and fast-moving channels of water that can quickly pull swimmers away from shore.

If you get caught in a rip current:

✔️ Stay calm. Don't panic.
✔️ Don't try to swim directly against the current.
✔️ Float, breathe and conserve your energy.
✔️ Swim parallel to the shore until you're out of the current, then make your way back to shore.
✔️ Always swim near a staffed lifeguard tower.

Rip currents can happen at any time, even on beautiful beach days. Before heading into the water, check beach conditions and remember that swimming near a lifeguard adds an important layer of protection.

Find current conditions here: https://bit.ly/473DRdv

Our Community Health Services team has been recognized with the 2026 Champions of Healthcare Award in Innovation by the Manatee Chamber of Commerce.

This award recognizes organizations making a meaningful impact on healthcare in Manatee County through innovation, collaboration and a commitment to serving the community.

We are incredibly proud of our team and the work they do every day to improve the lives of Manatee County residents. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition.

A Heat Advisory is in effect according to the US National Weather Service Tampa Bay Florida. If you're spending time outdoors today, remember to stay hydrated, seek shade and stay indoors when possible. Take frequent breaks and avoid prolonged exposure to the heat.

Meet the dedicated lifeguards helping keep our community safe in and around the water.

Whether you're spending the day at a county beach this summer or visiting one of our pools year-round, take a moment to get to know the professionals who work every day to help keep our community safe.

Remember, lifeguards are one layer of protection. They're trained, always scanning the water and ready to respond, but they don't replace active supervision. Always swim near a lifeguard and, if you're with children, designate a Water Watcher and avoid distractions.

From emergency responses to community health visits, our EMS crews remained dedicated to serving and protecting Manatee County every day. Check out our May 2026 snapshot, including activity from May 25-31, to see the impact they made across our community.

High Tide Forecast

Higher-than-normal tide levels are expected around midday today (June 15) and tomorrow (June 16). Water levels could reach at or above 2 feet.

While significant flooding is not expected, minor tidal flooding may occur in low-lying coastal areas, including:
📍 Anna Maria Island
📍Longboat Key
📍Bradenton riverfront
📍Palmetto riverfront
📍Cortez Village
📍Palmetto Point
📍Rubonia
📍Terra Ceia Island

Please stay alert and use caution when traveling near the water. Avoid flooded areas, and never drive through flooded roadways.

Forecast map guide:
• Orange points: 0.1–1 foot of water