Advertisement

Toronto-area schools changing outdoor breaks amidst wildfire smoke

Click to play video: 'Toronto residents react to wildfire smoke in the city'
Toronto residents react to wildfire smoke in the city
RELATED: Wildfires in Quebec have caused poor air conditions in Toronto. As Sean O'Shea reports, experts are advising vulnerable populations to limit time spent outdoors. – Jun 6, 2023

Some schools in the Greater Toronto Area are warning students they will have to start taking breaks inside as wildfire smoke cloaks the region.

Environment Canada issued an air quality statement for Toronto and its surrounding cities warning of high pollution coming from forest fires in Ontario and Quebec.

In a statement on Tuesday, York Region District School Board said air quality issues meant it would keep students inside during recess on Wednesday.

“Any outdoor activities planned for tomorrow will be rescheduled or modified to be held indoors,” the school board said.

Durham District School Board issued a similar statement, although it said only students and staff with health conditions that could be made worse by the smoke should stay indoors.

“Where possible, schools may reduce or reschedule heavy outdoor activities to the gymnasium,” the Durham board said.

Story continues below advertisement

Toronto District School Board said “all strenuous outdoor activities, including athletic events, planned for (Wednesday) and Thursday will be rescheduled or moved indoors where possible.”

Recess will still take place outside, the board said.

Sponsored content

AdChoices