The Camden County Office of Emergency Management announced on March 27 that a Code Blue Advisory will be in effect from Friday, March 27 at 7:00 p.m. through Sunday, March 29 at 7:00 a.m., due to projected low temperatures as forecasted by the National Weather Service.
The advisory is important because it activates local response plans to protect vulnerable populations, including homeless and transient individuals, during periods when the temperature is expected to drop below freezing.
Commissioner Jonathan Young, liaison to the Camden County Department of Public Safety, said, “As temperatures fall to dangerously low levels, it is critical that our residents have access to a safe place to stay warm. We urge everyone to check in on vulnerable neighbors, ensure heating systems are working properly, and bring pets indoors.”
Municipalities within Camden County are required under Code Blue conditions to implement their emergency response plans. The Office of Emergency Management works with each municipality across the county’s 37 municipalities—serving over 500,000 residents—to ensure resources are available for those seeking shelter from severe weather according to the official website. Each municipality has designated locations where community members can find shelter during extreme cold.
Residents are advised by officials to dress in layers using moisture-wicking materials when outdoors and use space heaters safely by keeping them away from flammable items and unplugging them when not in use. Additional tips include never using stoves or ovens as heat sources and ensuring smoke and carbon monoxide detectors function properly. Pets should be kept indoors during freezing temperatures; shivering is a sign they need warmth. Vehicle safety measures include checking lights and brakes before travel and carrying an emergency kit with blankets and other essentials.
Those needing shelter can contact their local municipality or visit www.camdencounty.com/service/health-human-services/warming-centers/ for information about warming centers. Residents requiring after-hours assistance may call 2-1-1.
Camden County advances community welfare through efforts in education, workforce development, public services—including parks, libraries, nutrition centers—and focuses on enhancing quality of life via public safety initiatives according to the official website. The county operates under a seven-member Board of Commissioners who serve staggered three-year terms according to the official website.
