To continue their work to support local organizations and the communities they serve, Minnesota Energy Resources and its charitable giving organization, the Wisconsin Public Service Foundation, are awarding more than $11,000 through their 2018 safety grants to nine emergency response agencies throughout Minnesota, according to a press release.

Among those awarded was the Albert Lea Fire Rescue, which will put the grant toward a multi-gas monitor; and the Ellendale Fire Department which will put the grant toward firefighter and emergency scene safety equipment.

“We are very pleased to receive this grant, and are thankful for the support of Minnesota Energy Resources,” said Hayden Feist, assistant chief for the Ellendale Fire Department. “The protective equipment this grant provides us will improve the safety and efficiency of our firefighters, which enhances our ability to keep the members of our community safe.”

Each spring since 2015, Minnesota Energy Resources has partnered with the WPS Foundation to offer the safety grants to help emergency response agencies purchase equipment or implement training that improves public safety. Gas detection monitors, an automobile extrication tool and firefighting equipment are among the items this year’s grants will help fund.

To qualify for a safety grant, emergency response agencies must demonstrate the equipment or training they will acquire is part of a well-planned effort to improve public safety. Grants also may be used to fund safety-related projects that are unique, one-time efforts.