In response to the National Weather Services’ Heat Advisory Alert, Niles Mayor Michael McCauslin has authorized the operation of the Niles Cooling Center located at the Niles Fire Station Complex at 1345 East Main St.
McCauslin stated that the Niles Cooling Center will open automatically whenever the National Weather Service issues a heat advisory for our area or when temperatures hit 90 degrees. Although the National Weather Service of Northern Indiana issued the latest heat advisory for the Niles area for today until 8 p.m., McCauslin has directed the Niles Cooling Center to be opened for the next seven days based on projected daily temperatures for the week.
In addition, the Niles Dial-A-Ride Transportation System will offer one complimentary ride per person per day to and from the Niles Cooling Center for those who need relief from the heat but have no transportation to the center. Dial A Ride will process calls to the Cooling Center along with its normal operations and residents are advised to call early as the response time for pick-ups may be more than an hour, depending on bus availabilities. Be advised that in an emergency situation residents should call 911 for immediate assistance. To request non-emergency transportation to the Niles Cooling Center call the Dial A Ride offices at 684- 5150.
Fire Chief Larry Lamb stated that the Cooling Center, located inside Council Chambers, is air-conditioned and that bottled water will be available for anyone who needs to find relief from the heat. For more information, please contact Chief Lamb at 683-2520.