This time of year, most of us turn our attention to winter safety. As part of our ongoing safety programs, though, we prepare year-round for winter weather conditions, including those surrounding Line 5 in the Straits of Mackinac.

In the unlikely event of an incident, we want to ensure we are able to respond quickly and efficiently.

Practice is a critical component to responsiveness and to our federally approved emergency response plan.

As such, we work throughout the year with world-class experts in cold-weather oil response to test our winter preparedness plans.

Additionally, we have equipment easily positioned near the Straits specifically to respond in winter conditions. We also practice in real-life winter conditions in the Straits with the U.S. Coast Guard, employees, contractors and first responders.

While we are confident in our winter preparedness measures, we remain focused on bringing the Great Lakes Tunnel Project to fruition.

The Great Lakes Tunnel will reduce the chance of a release into the Straits to near zero and remains the best solution for safely serving the community and providing the energy on which it relies.

JOE CALCATERRA,

Enbridge Inc., St. Ignace