'Code Blue' In Essex County: Shelters Will Open As Temperatures Drop

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Essex County is planning to move to “Code Blue” status throughout the region this weekend as weather forecasters call for frigid winter temperatures.

The county’s Code Blue alert will be active during nighttime hours starting at 8 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 18 and lasting to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 21.

Here’s what that means, according to Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo Jr. and Essex County Sheriff Armando Fontoura:

“When a Code Blue is declared, a network of warming stations operated by the county and its municipalities and shelters operated by the community-based organizations will be opened. The warming stations identified include a variety of public libraries, senior centers, civic and community centers, school buildings, houses of worship, firehouses and first aid squad buildings. 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.”

A list of participating shelters can be seen in the graphic below, or can be viewed by visiting www.NJ211.org or dialing 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,” DiVincenzo said. “We thank our participating shelters and warming stations who are working with us to open their doors in these times of need.”

“Our homeless residents need a warm place to stay when winter weather gets this bad,” Fontoura agreed. “The organizations opening their doors are providing a great service and helping us protect the safety of these vulnerable residents.”

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