Golden: No one will be left out in the cold

Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden announced that a Code Blue Alert has been issued in the County as extremely low temperatures and dangerously high winds are forecast. The Code Blue Alert is in effect starting on Sunday, January 20 at 6:00 a.m and extends through 8:00 a.m on Wednesday January 23.

“Our number one priority is to ensure the safety of all Monmouth County residents throughout this Code Blue Alert and always,” said Sheriff Golden, whose agency oversees the Monmouth County Office of Emergency Management. “The necessary plans, procedures and resources are in place to address any emergency situation that is elevated to the level of needing county assistance.”

Residents in need of a warming center are advised to contact their local police department. The municipality will then coordinate assistance with the Monmouth County Office of Emergency Management.

Golden asks that residents check on their elderly neighbors and to limit the outdoor activities of pets. If you must go out in the cold, it is advised to avoid over exertion, keep dry and wear several layers of loose-fitting clothes. While traveling, make sure that someone knows your route and schedule and have a winter survival kit, including a blanket, in your vehicle.

The Monmouth County Homeless Shelter in Freehold, Trinity Episcopal Church and the Jersey Shore Rescue Mission of Asbury Park and the Pilgrim Baptist Church/Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation of Red Bank are the County’s partners in providing shelter during Code Blue Alerts.

Monmouth County has implemented 10 Code Blue Alerts since Nov. 2018 and, with our community partners, have assisted approximately 130 people.