Monday January 12, 7:00 p.m. – Tuesday January 13, 7:00 a.m.
• Projected temperature: 30°F
Code Blue Advisories are declared when the National Weather Service predicts that the temperature is 32 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, or the wind chill temperature will be zero degrees Fahrenheit or lower for a period of two hours or more.
“As temperatures fall to dangerously low levels, it is critical that our residents have access to a safe place to stay warm,” said Commissioner Jonathan Young, liaison to the Camden County Department of Public Safety. “We urge everyone to check in on vulnerable neighbors, ensure heating systems are working properly, and bring pets indoors.”
When a Code Blue is issued, municipalities with vulnerable populations, including homeless or transient populations, are expected to activate their Code Blue response plan to accommodate their immediate needs. The Camden County Office of Emergency Management coordinates with each municipality within the County to ensure they have the proper resources to respond to these severe weather situations. Each municipality has identified its own location(s) to accommodate those in their community seeking shelter from the severe weather.
Preparation is key to ensure that you and your family have a safe and enjoyable winter. Keep these tips in mind as the temperatures drop:
- Dress in layers whenever you head outdoors, multiple thin layers will provide better insulation than one heavy winter coat. Make sure you wear moisture-wicking materials to help you stay dry, which is crucial to preventing hypothermia and frostbite.
- If you use a space heater at home or at work, make sure it is always placed at least 3 feet away from anything flammable, and always unplug it when it’s not in use. Never use your stove or oven as a heat source and ensure that your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in good working order.
- Keep your pet indoors as much as possible. If your pet is outdoors for extended periods when temperatures are below freezing, be alert for signs of distress from the cold. Just like in people, shivering is a sign that the body temperature is dropping. If you see your pet shivering, it is time to bring them inside.
- Prepare your vehicle for winter by checking that your headlights, windshield wipers, tires, and brakes are in good working order. Always clear snow or ice from your vehicle before you start driving to ensure visibility and prevent damage to other vehicles. Consider packing an emergency kit for your vehicle that includes a first-aid kit, blankets, flashlights, sand, or cat litter for tire traction.
Individuals seeking shelter at a warming center are encouraged to contact their local municipality. For a full list of warming centers in Camden County, please visit www.camdencounty.com/service/health-human-services/warming-centers/. Residents in need of shelter after-hours can call 2-1-1 for assistance.