Code Blue Extended Through Saturday

For the second time this week, a Code Blue Weather Emergency in effect in Burlington County has been extended, officials announced on Friday. The weather emergency had been in effect from 9 p.m. Tuesday night, Dec. 12, through 9 a.m. Thursday morning, Dec. 14. It was then extended through 10 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 15. On Friday, it was extended one more time, through Saturday, Dec. 16, 9 a.m.

Individuals in need of shelter, or for more information about Code Blue, can call CONTACT of Burlington County at 856-234-8888 or 866-234-5006. Once lifted, county officials will further assess upcoming weather conditions to determine if additional precautions are needed.

“A Code Blue declaration is made in Burlington County when winter weather conditions pose a threat of serious harm to individuals without shelter,” Freeholder Deputy Director Kate Gibbs, liaison to the Burlington County Health Department, said. “When a Code Blue is enacted it provides for short-term emergency shelters to those in need.

“During a Code Blue declaration, we encourage residents to stay indoors in heated areas. This is a time when we need to look out for the most vulnerable among us, especially children and older adults. Caution should also be taken with pets during extremely cold temperatures.”

For general cold weather precautions, check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website: https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/.

Patch file photo