Mayor Ras J. Baraka and Department of Health and CommunityWellness Director Ketlen Baptiste Alsbrook are extending “Code Blue” for theCity of Newark from 8 p.m. tonight, Friday, January 24, to 9 a.m., Monday,January 27. During thisperiod, temperatures are expected to drop to a low of 17°F.
A “Code Blue” is a Cold WeatherHealth Warning that is usuallycalled when temperatures drop to 32°F or when there is a wind chill factor of0°. Residents are reminded to continue being cautious during extreme coldweather.
The Health Department urges Newarkresidents to take precautions against the serious illnesses that can arise fromextreme cold, particularly for vulnerable populations such as seniors andindividuals with chronic health issues or mental health conditions. Citizensare also encouraged to check on their neighbors who may be isolated fromfriends and family.
The City of Newark Housing Coderequires all property owners to supply heat from October 1 through May 1between the hours of 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. at a minimum inside temperature of68°F, and between the hours of 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. at a minimum inside temperatureof 65°F. To report no heat or hot water in your home, call the Division ofCode Enforcement at (973) 733-6471.
The Mayor’s Officeof Homeless Services and its partners are dedicated to helping residents inneed during a “Code Blue.” Shelters will be open during extended hours and willincrease their bed capacity. Street outreach workers are available from 8a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week, reaching out to individuals withoutaddresses and encouraging them to enter emergency shelters or visit drop-in orwarming centers.
If you see someonewho is unsheltered and needs non-emergency services, please text “Path Home”to 855-11. This message will be sent to street outreach teams, who willlocate the individual and offer assistance. For more information aboutsheltering services, please contact one of the shelters listed below or reachthe Office of Homeless Services at (973) 877- 9481, available Mondaythrough Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
