Tim Gray, SMCAS executive director, stands outside the ambulance service’s new 24/7 substation in Milton Township.
Leader photo/CRAIG HAUPERT

Those needing medical attention in southern Niles should expect extremely prompt service.

On April 1, Southwestern Michigan Community Ambulance Service opened a new 24/7 substation at the Milton Township Hall, 32097 Bertrand St.

The station will have two people on staff ready to respond to calls in Milton Township and south Niles Township.

Those wanting to tour the new station can do so during an open house from noon to 4 p.m. Thursday.

Tim Gray, SMCAS executive director, said response times to southern Niles would decrease from four to six minutes to two to three minutes because of the new station.

“It will be almost shaving it in half,” he said.

South Niles accounts for the second largest volume of calls, behind Niles City, according to Gray. Total SMCAS calls increased from 6,700 in 2011 to 7,208 in 2012. Gray said SMCAS is on pace to respond to between 8,400 and 8,500 calls in 2013.

“Flu season this year in December and January accounted for the two busiest months we’ve ever had,” he said.

The new SMCAS substation is located in the 1986 community center next to Milton Township Hall. It was renovated to include two sleeping chambers, a kitchen, bathroom, shower and recreation area.

Two ambulances are housed at the station. Off-duty emergency responders, when needed, will have access to the second ambulance.