An ignition operation is underway as favourable southeast winds have kept a wildfire from reaching Fort Providence.

"The operation is being overseen by an ignition specialist. The ignition spans the northern edge of the community from the Mackenzie River to the northwest, to the southeast corner of fire SS014, which approached the community," said NWT Fire information officer Mike Westwick. "The expanded fuel breaks are being used as an anchor point.

"A helicopter are carefully burning off vegetation in the fire’s path towards the community. There have been no losses of homes reported at this time."

Air tanker drops and a ground mop up will then take place to cool the soil after ignitions are completed.

The southeast flank of the fire, which came within 900 metres of the community, has

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