A Code Blue declaration is made when winter weather conditions pose a threat of serious harm to individuals without shelter.
Burlington County Freeholder Deputy Director Kate Gibbs has announced that the County Health Department, in concurrence with the County Office of Emergency Management, has extended the current Code Blue Weather Emergency until 6 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 29, due to the extreme cold temperatures currently forecasted. County officials will further assess weather conditions on Friday to determine if additional precautions are needed.
“A Code Blue declaration is made in Burlington County when winter weather conditions pose a threat of serious harm to individuals without shelter,” said Gibbs, who also serves as liaison to the County Health Department. “When a Code Blue is enacted it provides for short-term emergency shelters to those in need.”
Individuals in need of shelter, or for more information about Code Blue, can call CONTACT of Burlington County at (856) 234–8888 or (866) 234–5006.
“During a Code Blue declaration, we encourage residents to stay indoors in heated areas,” Gibbs said. “This is a time when we need to look out for the most vulnerable among us, especially children and older adults. Caution should also be taken with pets during extremely cold temperatures.”
For general cold weather precautions, check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at www.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/.
