Camden County Issues Code Blue Ahead Of Freezing Temps Expected Overnight
CAMDEN COUNTY, N.J. (CBS) -- Heads up Camden County -- the health department has issued a code blue because of how cold it will get on Tuesday night. The advisory will be in effect from 7 p.m. Tuesday until 7 a.m. Wednesday morning.
It's been cold and gloomy all day. People are bundled up, and it's expected to drop to freezing cold temperatures overnight.
A code blue is issued when temperatures drop below 32 degrees in order to make a plan for people struggling with homelessness. The Camden County Health Department and the Office of Emergency Management say it can be dangerous if you're outside in the elements.
These cold temperatures will disproportionately affect vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, those with housing insecurities, and pets.
County officials are sending a reminder that it is extremely unsafe to use your stove as a heater. Use a space heater instead.
Keep in mind that pets can freeze to death. If they are outside, make sure it's an environment that's safe and warm. The county commissioner is urging people to check up on loved ones.
"Our Camden County firefighters will routinely check up on the residents that are here," Camden County Commissioner Carmen Rodriguez said.
If you or someone you know needs a warming center, contact your local municipality. They should have a location to accommodate people looking for a place to warm up.
The Camden County Department of Health also offers additional resources for those who need it.
"We know seniors often experience financial situations in which they find themselves afraid to turn on the heat and may resort to other ways of keeping themselves warm that are not so safe," Rodriguez said.
Each municipality is expected to check on homeless and transient populations. For those in the city of Camden that may need help with their PSE&G bill, you can call or walk right into the department of human services.
"We encourage everyone in the community if you know a senior or someone who's going through a difficult time, please reach out to make sure they're OK," Rodriguez said.
For a full list of warming centers in Camden County, click here.
