Code Blue In Essex County: Shelters Open, Cold Weather In Forecast

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Essex County has declared a “Code Blue” for local residents amid predictions of a cold weather snap this week.

The county’s Code Blue will begin at 8 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 5. It will end at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 7. The alert is for nighttime hours only.

Essex County’s Code Blue procedures are activated when the temperature is forecasted to drop below 32 degrees. During this period, shelters and warming stations are open for people experiencing homelessness and others in need.

County officials noted:

“Warming stations are generally opened during the day and may not provide overnight accommodations. Shelters do provide overnight accommodations. In addition, shelters that regularly require occupants to leave during the day will suspend that practice so people can stay indoors.”

For participating shelters and warming stations, view the graphic below, visit www.nj211.org or dial 2-1-1.

“Providing our homeless residents with a warm place to stay during extreme weather conditions is important for their safety and well-being,” Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo Jr. said.

“Our homeless residents need a warm place to stay when winter weather gets this bad,” Essex County Sheriff Armando Fontoura agreed.

“The organizations opening their doors are providing a great service and helping us protect the safety of these vulnerable residents,” he added.

• See Related: NJ Snowstorms Likely Into Spring, New Forecast Says

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