Mayor Baraka Activates “Code Blue” In Preparation Of Expected Cold Temperatures

Mayor Ras J. Baraka and Department of Health and Community Wellness Director Dr. Mark Wade announced that the City of Newark activated “Code Blue” for tonight, Wednesday, November 21, through Friday, November 23. A strong cold front is expected to impact the Newark region this evening and tomorrow, with highs only in the mid-20s and strong gusts that will cause wind chills of 10 to 15 degrees.

Code Blue is called when temperatures reach 25°F or lower without precipitation or 32°F or lower with precipitation. “We are expected to endure temperatures as low as 8°F and residents should take measures to ensure their safety at home and when outside of their home,” said Director Wade.

“Newark is facing an onslaught of “extremely cold temperatures and wintry weather conditions,” Mayor Baraka said. “I urge our residents to take precautions to keep their homes safe and be safe when they are out and about, and to check on their neighbors, especially the disabled, children, and the elderly.”

In addition, Mayor Baraka reminded residents of the hazards of cold weather. “Several layers of warm clothing and protection against moisture and wind are important, even though weather may not seem to threaten cold injury. Gloves and socks should be kept as dry as possible. Insulated boots that do not obstruct circulation are essential in very cold weather. Warm head covering is particularly important, since 30 percent of heat loss is from the head,” he said.

City administration also reminded residents today that City Hall will be closed and all non-emergency Newark municipal services will be suspended on Thursday, November 22 and Friday, November 23, for the observance of the Thanksgiving Day holiday. Police, fire, and other uniformed emergency services will be unaffected. Curbside trash, street sweeping, and recycling collection will not be picked up.  Curbside trash collection will not be made on Thursday, November 22, or Friday, November 23. However, trash pick-ups will resume on Monday, November 26. In addition, alternate side of the street parking will be suspended.

“I urge all of Newark’s residents to uphold the city’s sanitation ordinances during this Thanksgiving weekend. While Newark City Hall will be closed in observance of this important holiday, the city will be ready to respond to any emergency. I wish all of our residents a healthy and happy holiday with family and friends, and encourage our residents to take time to spread Thanksgiving cheer to others, by volunteering with community organizations to support residents at risk and the homeless, and to continue to make Newark a stronger city,” said Mayor Baraka.

Municipal garbage and recycling collection will resume in in Zone A will resume on Monday, November 26. It will resume in Zone B on Tuesday morning, November 27. Residents must place their refuse at their curbs before 6 a.m. those days, and pick-ups will be made as regularly scheduled.

The Department of Health and Community Wellness’s inspection services, transportation for seniors, and health clinic will not operate on Thursday, November 22, and on Friday, November 23. In addition, the Division of Vital Statistics will be closed. Residents will not be able to apply for permits, birth certificates, name-change certificates, or marriage licenses, nor pay water or tax bills at City Hall.

The City also reminds residents that there are a number of homeless shelters operating during the extreme cold weather that have partnered with the City to provide emergency sheltering, including Code Blue sheltering. For more information about sheltering services, contact the shelters listed below or the Department of Health and Community Wellness, Division of Social/Homeless Services at (973) 877- 9484, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.