As temperatures are expected to plummet to 17°F this week, Mayor Ras J. Baraka and the Department of Health and Community Wellness Director Ketlen Baptiste Alsbrook triggered a “Code Blue” from 8 PM on January 13 to 8 AM on January 20. During this “Code Blue,” the city emphasizes caution due to the severe cold.
Residents can seek refuge in emergency shelters operated by the city’s social service agencies. For shelter information, please contact:
• Miller Street Pathways to Housing Center, 41 Miller Street, Newark, NJ, at (862) 229-4461 for families.
• H.E.L.P. Center, 224 Sussex Avenue, Newark, NJ, at (973) 705-7200 for adults.For more details, the Office of Homeless Services is available at (973) 877-9481 from Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
The City of Newark also advises residents to:
• Maintain indoor temperatures at a minimum of 68°F.
• Learn how to use the main water shutoff in your home.
• Keep faucets dripping to prevent pipes from freezing.
• Regularly check on the elderly.
• Stay indoors and check for drafts, using plastic to seal them.
• Never leave space heaters unattended and ensure they are off when leaving a room or going to bed.
• Avoid using generators or kerosene heaters indoors.
