It is important for residents to recognize that such a declaration does not automatically signal a state of total lockdown or immediate peril for every individual. New Jersey’s emergencies can be highly localized, affecting only specific coastal counties during a storm, or statewide in the event of a broad health crisis. When officials urge people to stay off the streets, the motivation is typically centered on harm reduction rather than the incitement of alarm. During severe weather, for instance, reducing civilian traffic minimizes the likelihood of accidents and ensures that first responders, snowplows, and utility crews can navigate the roadways without obstruction. Staying home in these scenarios is often the most effective way for a citizen to contribute to the collective safety effort. Continue reading…
