Due
to dropping temperatures, Burlington County Freeholder Director Felicia Hopson
reports that a Code Blue Cold Weather Emergency has been declared starting 7PM
on Thursday, January 16 to 11AM on Tuesday, January 21. Officials will then
review and assess upcoming weather forecasts.
“A
Code Blue declaration is made in Burlington County when winter conditions pose
a threat of serious harm or death to individuals without shelter,” explained
Director Hopson. “When a Code Blue is enacted, it provides for short-term
emergency sheltering.”
DAYTIME
WARMING INFORMATION
During
normal business hours, public buildings are available as warming centers.
EMERGENCY
SHELTER
For
overnight shelter, individuals can call 211 for Emergency Shelter information.
“During
a Code Blue declaration, we encourage residents to stay indoors in heated
areas,” added Director Hopson. “Extreme cold weather can be just as dangerous
as extremely hot weather. This is the time to watch out for those most
vulnerable among us, especially children and older adults. Caution also should be
taken with pets during extremely cold temperatures.”
For
general cold weather precautions, check the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention website: https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/