Protect Your Health from Wildfire Smoke

Wildfire smoke season in Ontario runs from April to October and exposure to smoke can cause throat and eye irritation, coughing, headaches, or more serious issues such as trouble breathing and chest pain, especially in vulnerable groups. Toronto Public Health monitors the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) to guide public messaging. To protect your health, reduce smoke exposure and check AQHI regularly.

How can I protect myself and my family during wildfire smoke events?

Stay indoors when possible, keep windows closed, use air purifiers if available, wear a well-fitted respiratory type of mask (N95) to reduce exposure to fine particles if going outdoors and check the AQHI regularly for updates at airqualityontario.com.

Where can residents go if they need a place with cleaner air during wildfire smoke events?

During poor air quality days, residents can visit cleaner air spaces such as Toronto’s Civic Centres, Metro Hall and Toronto City Hall, libraries, community centres and malls with good ventilation and air filtration. These spaces offer relief, especially for those at higher risk, like children, seniors and people with existing health conditions. Find a Cleaner Air Space near you at toronto.ca/wildfire.

Find more information on Toronto Public Health’s Wildfire Smoke webpage.

Latest posts

Church Street Pedestrianization Public Survey

The City is doing a survey of the Church Street Pedestrianization Project that my office and the Church-Wellesley Village BIA is operating on Church Street between Wellesley Street East and Alexander Street until August 21. Your feedback will help inform the City's response to future street closures here and across the City. If your a resident who has been to Church Street, take the survey! And if you haven't yet been, come see what you're missing then take the survey! The survey closes September 7, 2026.

Identify ‘N Impact Youth Grants - Apply by September 15!

The City of Toronto’s Identify ‘N Impact community grant helps promote youth engagement and community safety by providing up to $17K for youth-led (15-29) initiatives that help with violence prevention, mental health and well-being, skills development, arts and youth-friendly spaces. Applications are now open until September 15 at 12:00pm.

Biidaasige Park is Bigger, Better and more Beautiful!

Opened last year, Biidaasige Park is expanding with 10 more acres of public waterfront space at 238 Cherry Street on Ookwemin Minising. With new places to walk, cycle, paddle, gather, enjoy public art and take in skyline views, residents and visitors are invited to come celebrate during opening weekend on July 25 and 26. See what’s happening this weekend and beyond, including free guided kayak tours, walking tours and art-making workshops.