Garden State Times

Commissioner Jonathan Young, associated with the Camden County Department of Public Safety, has announced a Code Blue Advisory for the region. This advisory will be in effect from 7 p.m. on March 26 to 7 a.m. on March 27. Residents are encouraged to utilize the after-hours code blue emergency hotline at 2-1-1 if needed.

Young emphasized the importance of staying indoors due to the expected drop in temperature, stating, "While the weather is getting warmer and baseball is about to start, the temperature is set to drop again tonight, so it is critical that everyone is inside and away from the elements." He also highlighted the need for elderly residents and those with disabilities to ensure their heating systems are functional and urged pet owners to bring animals indoors.

The Camden County Office of Emergency Management requires municipalities with homeless or transient populations to activate their Code Blue response plans during such advisories. Young advised residents, "If you know of anyone who is elderly or disabled, please check on them to make sure they’re prepared to stay safe in these dangerous temperatures."

Young provided several cold weather tips for pet safety. He advised keeping pets indoors when temperatures fall below 32 degrees or providing adequate outdoor shelter if necessary. Signs of distress in pets should prompt bringing them inside as soon as possible. Additionally, he warned against leaving pets in unheated vehicles and recommended ensuring access to clean drinking water while avoiding harmful substances like antifreeze.

Municipalities have been working with both the Camden County Health Department and Office of Emergency Management to ensure resources are available for severe weather situations under their Code Blue plans. Each municipality has designated locations for community members seeking shelter from harsh conditions.

For those needing shelter at warming centers, contacting local municipalities is advised. In case of power outages, residents should report directly to utility providers: PSE&G at 1-800-436-PSEG (7734), Atlantic City Electric at 1-800-833-7476, or South Jersey Gas at 1-800-582-7060.