​​​​BRAMPTON, ON – Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has issued an orange-level air quality alert for Brampton as wildfire smoke from active fires in northwestern Ontario moves into the city. During heavy smoke conditions, residents can expect poor air quality and reduced visibility. 

Combined with an ongoing yellow-level heat alert from ECCC with high temperatures, wildfire smoke can increase the risk of illness, particularly for older adults, young children, pregnant individuals, people with existing heart or lung conditions and those who spend extended periods outdoors.​

City of Brampton programs and services​

To keep residents and patrons safe, the City is adjusting programs and services:

• Summer camps and outdoor programs: Camp activities have been modified to keep children indoors and limit outdoor exposure. Campers at outdoor-only locations have been relocated to indoor sites for the remainder of the week. Where an indoor alternative is not available, registered outdoor programs will be cancelled on Wednesday, July 15. Affected participants will be notified directly.
  
• Sports field and outdoor facility rentals: For all sports field and facility rentals, groups will be permitted to cancel their bookings without penalty, and any associated rental fees for the spaces will be waived
• Cooling centres and indoor spaces: Publicly accessible buildings, including City Hall, recreation centres and libraries, are available as heat relief locations during regular business hours. 
• Splash pads and wading pools: The City’s 24 splash pads are open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., weather permitting. The Chinguacousy Park wading pool, Professor’s Lake Beach and Eldorado Park Outdoor Pool are also currently open daily, weather permitting. Before you visit, get tickets and check the status and hours of operation for these outdoor amenities at brampton.ca/splash​​.
• City events: City-led events, including the Garden Square live screening, are proceeding as scheduled. The Rose's 24-hour lobby will be available as an indoor space, and water refill stations will be available throughout the event area. The City will continue to monitor conditions to help protect public health and will share any updates through its social media channels.

Protect yourself during poor air quality

Wildfire smoke can travel long distances and affect air quality, even when fires are far from Brampton. Air quality conditions can change quickly, making it important to stay informed. Residents are encouraged to:

• Reduce the amount of time spent outdoors. 
• Review the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) before planning outdoor activities and monitor local air quality conditions throughout the day, as conditions can change rapidly. 
• Follow guidance from Peel Public Health​ and ECCC.

Common symptoms of smoke exposure include eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches and coughing. More serious symptoms, such as wheezing, chest pain or difficulty breathing, require immediate medical attention. 

Stay safe during extreme heat

Heat warnings are issued when temperatures and humidity are expected to reach levels that increase the risk of heat-related illness.

To stay safe during hot weather:

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even before you feel thirsty. 
• Stay in cool, air-conditioned spaces whenever possible. 
• Limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. 
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and seek shade when outdoors. 
• Check in on family members, neighbours and others who may be more vulnerable to extreme heat. 
  

To view detailed signs and symptoms of heat-related illness, review the Staying Healthy in the Heat ​fact sheet.​

Stay informed

Environment and Climate Change Canada monitors weather conditions and air quality, issuing heat warnings and air quality alerts when conditions may pose a health risk. The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) provides up-to-date information on local air quality, while the WeatherCAN app​​ offers notifications for weather alerts in your area.