Mississauga and Brampton health units have closed all public health clinics due to poor air quality due to smoke from ongoing wildfires in Ontario.
Just before 4 p.m. Thursday, the Region of Peel reported that all public health clinics were temporarily closed due to air quality warnings issued for the Greater Toronto Area and much of southern Ontario.
Anyone with an appointment with Peel Public Health on Friday is asked to call ahead and confirm in case the closure is extended.
The region has also suspended adult day services.
All outdoor pools were also closed in Mississauga, and the city’s planned outdoor recreational activities were suspended. In Brampton, summer camps and programs are being postponed, and sports field and outdoor rentals are being cancelled.
Smoke conditions are expected to remain poor through Thursday, with some improvement possible by Friday morning. Environment Canada warns that during periods of heavy smoke from wildfires, everyone’s health can be affected, regardless of age or general health.
Symptoms of smoke exposure range from eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches and mild coughing to more severe symptoms such as wheezing, chest pain and severe coughing. Anyone experiencing severe symptoms or a medical emergency should seek medical attention immediately.
“Children, older adults and people experiencing symptoms such as cough or throat irritation should take extra precautions and limit physical activity outdoors,” the City of Mississauga said.
Residents are also urged to protect indoor air quality by keeping windows and doors closed as much as possible. However, during periods of extreme heat, staying cool should remain a priority.
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