LANSING — State Rep. Greg Markkanen, R-Hancock, said a round of community safety grants awarded by Enbridge will provide a welcome boost for several public safety agencies.

Enbridge recently awarded $7,500 grants to the Michigan State Police Wakefield Post, Iron County Sheriff’s Office, Iron County Emergency Management and 911, and Wakefield Fire Department. Enbridge Safe Community Grants can be awarded to purchase safety equipment or fund professional training and safety education programs, according to the company.

“I’m grateful for Enbridge’s continued investment in communities throughout the Western Upper Peninsula,” said Markkanen. “These funds are going to help our local first responders by providing equipment and other resources they need to keep themselves and the public safe.”

The Enbridge Safe Community Program has provided grants to first responder agencies providing safety in communities along the company’s project corridor since 2002. Since its inception, the program has invested more than $12.5 million in emergency responder organizations across North America.