Canadian Forces help with wildfire evacuations near Ontario/Manitoba border

The federal government is stepping in to help with wildfires near the Ontario/Manitoba border.

Royal Canadian Air Force personnel based in Winnipeg were deployed to evacuate Poplar Hill First Nation, about 315 kilometres northeast of the Manitoba capital, over the weekend.

Evacuation of hundreds of residents to Thunder Bay and other Ontario communities began Sunday after Ontario made a formal request for federal assistance.

“The Canadian Armed Forces are always ready to protect Canadians when threatened by natural disasters,” said National Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan.

Get daily Winnipeg news

Get the day's top stories from Winnipeg and surrounding communities, delivered to your inbox once a day.

Sign up for daily Winnipeg newsletter Sign Up

By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

“The wildfires near Poplar Hill First Nation are tragic and we are honoured to be able to assist them as requested. Our quick mobilization of Hercules aircraft will ensure the residents are safe from potential disaster.”