‘Code Blue’ In Essex County Extended Over The Weekend

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Essex County is extending its “Code Blue” alert through the weekend due to a forecast of cold weather, officials announced Friday.

The Code Blue is taking place as temperatures are predicted to drop below 32 degrees. Here’s what to know about the alert:

“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.”

Code Blue protocols will be in effect through Monday, Dec. 8 at 8 a.m. This is for night time hours only, county officials noted.

A list of participating shelters follows below. It can also 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,” Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo Jr. said.

“We thank our participating shelters and warming stations who are working with us to open their doors in these times of need,” DiVincenzo added.

“Our homeless residents need a warm place to stay when winter weather gets this bad,” Essex County Sheriff Armando Fontoura agreed.

“The organizations opening their doors are providing a great service and helping us protect the safety of these vulnerable residents,” he said.

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