The Camden County Office of Emergency Management has issued a Code Blue Advisory for the county, citing dangerously low temperatures forecasted by the National Weather Service. The advisory will be in effect from Monday, February 23 at 7 p.m. through Tuesday, February 24 at 7 a.m., with temperatures expected to reach 26°F. It will continue from Tuesday, February 24 at 7 p.m. until Wednesday, February 25 at 7 a.m., when temperatures are projected to drop further to 23°F.
A Code Blue is declared when the National Weather Service predicts temperatures of 32 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, or when wind chill values fall to zero degrees Fahrenheit or below for two hours or more.
“As temperatures fall to dangerously low levels, it is critical that our residents have access to a safe place to stay warm,” said Commissioner Jonathan Young, liaison to the Camden County Department of Public Safety. “We urge everyone to check in on vulnerable neighbors, ensure heating systems are working properly, and bring pets indoors.”
Municipalities with vulnerable populations are required to activate their Code Blue response plans during these advisories. The Camden County Office of Emergency Management works with each municipality within the county to provide necessary resources for severe weather response. Each community has identified locations where people can seek shelter from the cold.
Residents are encouraged to prepare for winter conditions by dressing in layers using moisture-wicking materials and ensuring heating devices are used safely. Space heaters should be kept at least three feet away from flammable items and unplugged when not in use; stoves and ovens should never be used as heat sources. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be checked regularly.
Pet owners are advised to keep animals indoors as much as possible during freezing temperatures and watch for signs such as shivering that indicate distress due to cold exposure.
Vehicle preparation is also recommended: checking headlights, windshield wipers, tires, brakes, and clearing snow or ice before driving can help prevent accidents. An emergency kit containing blankets, flashlights, first-aid supplies, sand or cat litter for traction is suggested.
Those seeking shelter at warming centers should contact their local municipality or visit www.camdencounty.com/service/health-human-services/warming-centers/. After-hours assistance is available by calling 2-1-1.
Camden County supports over half a million residents across its 37 municipalities in southern New Jersey and operates under a seven-member Board of Commissioners serving staggered terms (official website). The county provides public safety services alongside efforts in education, workforce development, health services, transportation infrastructure maintenance—including parks and libraries—and economic development (official website).
