Mississauga residents planning an outdoor swim will need to change their plans: the City has closed its outdoor pools until further notice because of poor air quality. Some outdoor recreation programs have also been moved indoors.

According to a City of Mississauga news release, wildfires elsewhere in Ontario are affecting local air quality, with the Air Quality Health Index at 10+, a level classified as very high.

The City is advising residents to avoid strenuous outdoor activity while those conditions persist. Anyone who must spend time outside is advised to reduce exposure to smoke as much as possible while also making it a priority to stay cool.

The pool closures and recreation changes are intended to protect public health and safety, the City said. They will be reassessed as air quality changes; the notice does not give a reopening date.

Extra precautions for children and older adults

Children, older adults and people experiencing symptoms such as coughing or throat irritation should take additional precautions and limit physical exertion outdoors, according to the City’s guidance.

The City says reducing exposure to smoke is the most effective way to protect health. As air quality deteriorates, the likelihood of health effects rises, making it important to spend less time outdoors and adjust daily activities where possible.

That advice applies beyond scheduled recreation: residents are being asked to limit outdoor activity where they can, not simply avoid activities affected by the City’s closures.

Cancelled classes and rental questions

For cancelled activities, the City says make-up classes will be arranged for a later date where possible. If a class is not rescheduled, a refund will be issued.

Outdoor permit holders with questions can contact the City’s Customer Service Centre at 905-615-4100 or email facility.rentals@mississauga.ca.

The City will continue monitoring weather reports and alerts from Environment and Climate Change Canada as it reviews the closures and program changes.

Updated information will be shared through the City’s Recreation and Arts & Culture websites and their social media accounts. For now, the outdoor pool closures and the move indoors for some outdoor recreation programs remain in effect until further notice.