Mississauga residents are being advised to reduce their exposure to wildfire smoke as it brings poor air quality and reduced visibility to the city, according to the City of Mississauga. The smoky conditions may continue through the day.
Hot, dry weather has also pushed the local fire risk to very high, prompting Mississauga Fire and Emergency Services to issue an open-air burn restriction. The City is urging residents to exercise caution when cooking outdoors and follow fire safety guidance.
Wildfires are burning in several parts of Canada, including northern Ontario. Smoke from those fires is affecting southern Ontario, including Mississauga, and the City warns that health risks increase as smoke levels rise.
Monitor conditions and limit exposure
The City recommends checking the Air Quality Health Index regularly. Environment and Climate Change Canada uses the index to monitor and report air quality and issues Special Air Quality Statements when conditions deteriorate.
Air quality can change quickly during a smoke event. Residents are encouraged to keep track of conditions so they can adjust their activities and reduce exposure as needed.
As air quality worsens, the City advises spending less time outdoors and changing daily activities where possible. People who are more susceptible to smoke should reduce or reschedule strenuous outdoor activities and seek medical advice if symptoms develop.
For anyone who must be outside, a well-fitting respirator, such as an N95 or equivalent, can reduce exposure to fine particles. The City cautions that wearing one does not remove all health risk.
Indoor air and health precautions
The City says protecting indoor air is another important way to reduce exposure. Residents who need another place to spend time can consider libraries, community centres or shopping malls, which often have better air filtration systems.
Wildfire smoke can travel long distances and is different from typical urban air pollution. According to the City, it contains fine particles and harmful gases that can enter the lungs and bloodstream, potentially causing inflammation and other health effects.
The likelihood of health effects increases as smoke conditions worsen. Anyone experiencing severe symptoms, or who believes they may be having a medical emergency, should seek immediate medical attention.
The City also links more frequent and intense wildfires to climate change, saying hotter and drier conditions make forests more likely to burn and help fires spread. It says its response includes forest management, community preparedness and plans to mitigate climate change.
