Officials are reminding Region residents to be safe in the heat, to check on others who may need help, and to make sure animals have a place to stay cool in the shade with access to fresh clean water, or are indoors in extreme heat.

Cooling center for Gary residents include Brunswick Pavilion, Calumet Township in the 1900 block of W. 41^st Avenue, Hudson & Campbell Fitness Center, Public Safety Facility on Polk Street and Roosevelt Pavilion at 21^st and Harrison.  Cooling center locations in Valparaiso include Harre Union and Christopher Center Library at Valparaiso University, Valparaiso YMCA, Porter County Public Library, Valparaiso branch, Vale Park Enrichment Center at Banta, St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Church, and Ivy Tech Community College Northwest Valparaiso Campus. In addition, the Valparaiso Police Department offers a special program for anyone who may need special help during weather emergencies, including times when heat index exceeds 100 degrees for consecutive days.

Cooling centers for Hammond residents include the Jean Shepherd Community Center, the Lost Marsh Clubhouse, Hammond City Hall, and the Hammond Civic Center.

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