Due to dropping temperatures, Burlington County has issued a Code Blue Cold Weather Emergency running 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 21 until 8 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 23. Officials will then review and assess the upcoming weather forecast.
“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 Burlington County Freeholder Director Felicia Hopson. “When a Code Blue is enacted, it provides for short-term emergency sheltering.”
During normal business hours, public buildings are available as warming centers. For overnight shelter, individuals can call 2-1-1 for emergency shelter information.
“During a Code Blue declaration, we encourage residents to stay indoors in heated areas,” Hopson added. “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, www.cdc.gov/disasters/winter.
