Learn about Code Blue alerts and snow removal policy
There are measures in place on the county level to cope with freezing temperatures. The county can call for a Code Blue Alert during these times.
“A Code Blue Alert is declared whenever temperatures drop below the freezing point and weather conditions pose a danger to the homeless population,” Debra Selitto, a county spokeswoman said. “The Code Blue Alert allows authorities to take homeless people to local shelters or other agencies known as warming centers.”
The warming center in Williamstown is the Pfeiffer Community Center (301 Blue Bell St.), which is open Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, contact the Pfeiffer Community Center at (856) 728–1140.
Gloucester County has a hotline (800–648–0132) residents can call if they have any questions or need help. Selitto said the line is staffed 24 hours every day throughout the week and is toll-free.
Jim DeHart, the Office of Emergency Management coordinator, said the county alerts local municipalities when a Code Blue is in effect.
“At that point, our officers, fire and EMS are on the road,” he said.
The first responders are patrolling, looking out for the homeless population. If the person so wishes, they can go to the Pfeiffer Center to warm up.
“If it’s going to be long-term and the person needs a place to stay, we have the county resource where they can be put up in another facility,” DeHart added.
The Monroe Township Office of Emergency Management will post on its Facebook page when a Code Blue is in effect. Residents can sign up for alerts from the Office of Emergency Management under the “Government” tab at www.monroetownshipnj.org.
In the case of a long-term power outage, DeHart said the American Red Cross and Atlantic City Electric have come out to support those without power.
“These are good programs the county offers, we want to take care of our population,” DeHart said.
When it comes to snow removal, council vice president and ordinance chair Joe Marino said homeowners or tenants have 10 hours of daylight to remove the snow from their sidewalks.
“If the storm ends at midnight the 10-hour clock starts at daylight,” Marino said.
DeHart added fire hydrants and gas meters need to be dug out as well.
The snow is removed from township roads by the public works department with the MUA providing assistance.
After a snowstorm drivers are required by state law to remove all snow and ice before driving. Fines can range from $25 to $75 per offense. If the snow or ice flies off and causes property damage, fines jump to $200 to $1,000 per offense.
