Commissioner Virginia Betteridge, liaison to the Camden County Department of Health and Human Services, has announced a Code Blue Weather Advisory that has been in effect sinc the evening of Friday, Nov. 29, and continuing through the morning of Wednesday, Dec. 4. This advisory is in response to dangerously low temperatures expected in the region.
The Code Blue will be in effect during the following times:
- Tuesday, Dec. 3, 7am-7 pm – Wednesday, Dec. 4, 7am
For after-hours assistance during this advisory, residents can call the emergency hotline at 2-1-1.
“It is crucial that everyone gets inside and away from these dangerous elements,” said Commissioner Betteridge. “We also urge residents to check on elderly or disabled neighbors to ensure their heat is functioning properly and bring all pets indoors to keep them safe.”
When a Code Blue is declared, municipalities are expected to activate their response plans to accommodate homeless or transient populations. Residents seeking shelter in warming centers should contact their local municipality. Additional resources are available by calling the Camden County Department of Health and Human Services at (800) 999-9045 or visiting www.camdencounty.com.
Commissioner Betteridge provided the following cold-weather tips for keeping pets safe:
- Keep pets indoors when the temperature falls below 32°F. If pets must remain outside, provide a warm shelter raised off the ground, with a wind-protected entrance.
- Be alert for signs of distress, such as shivering, and bring pets indoors if needed.
- Ensure pets have access to clean, unfrozen water, and prevent them from drinking from puddles that may contain antifreeze or harmful chemicals.
- Protect pets’ paws from salt and chemicals by wiping them after walks or using pet booties.
- Check under vehicles for outdoor cats seeking warmth before starting the engine.
- Be vigilant about antifreeze ingestion, which is toxic to pets and requires immediate veterinary care.
The Camden County Health Department and Office of Emergency Management have partnered with municipalities to ensure adequate resources and shelter availability. Each municipality has identified a location to accommodate those seeking shelter during severe weather.
In case of a power outage, report it directly to your utility provider:
- PSE&G: 1-800-436-7734 | PSEG Website
- Atlantic City Electric: 1-800-833-7476 | Atlantic City Electric Website
- South Jersey Gas: 1-800-582-7060 | South Jersey Gas Website
Residents are encouraged to assist those in need by spreading the word about available resources and checking on vulnerable neighbors. The Code Blue advisory underscores the importance of community support in protecting lives during extreme weather conditions.
For more information and updates, visit www.camdencounty.com or contact the Camden County Department of Health and Human Services at (800) 999-9045.
