Burlington County declares code blue

With a severe winter storm expected to bring freezing temperatures, high winds, and wind chill factors into the teens overnight, the Burlington County Health Department today declared that a Code Blue Cold Weather Emergency will commence at 7 p.m. today and remain in effect through 9 a.m. tomorrow, Friday, Dec. 28.

Officials will then review and assess upcoming weather forecasts.

A Code Blue declaration is made in Burlington County when winter conditions pose a threat of serious harm or death to individuals without shelter. When a Code Blue is enacted, it provides for short-term emergency sheltering.

Individuals can call Contact of Burlington County at (856) 234–8888 or (866) 234–5006 for a list of available shelters and additional Code Blue information.

For general cold weather precautions, check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website:http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/winter.