In response to the National Weather Services’ Heat Advisory Alert, Niles Mayor Michael McCauslin authorized the operation of the Niles Cooling Center at the Niles Fire Station Complex at 1345 E. Main St.

McCauslin said Tuesday that the Niles Cooling Center will open automatically whenever the National Weather Service issues a heat advisory for our area or when temperatures rise to 90 degrees or more.

McCauslin directed the Niles Cooling Center to be opened for the next five days based on projected daily temperatures for the upcoming 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.

Residents are advised to call early as the response time for pick-ups may be more than an hour, depending on bus availabilities.

Please 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, contact Chief Lamb at (269) 591-0913.