Summer on alert: heat and unhealthy air Raise concerns in Toronto

What should be the lightest season of the year has required extra caution from Toronto residents.

The city has been affected by intense heat waves and smoke from wildfires in northern Ontario, worsening air quality. At times, Toronto ranked among the cities
with the most polluted air in the world, according to realtime data from IQAir.

With high temperatures and air rated as “unhealthy” (above 170 on the AQI, which stands for Air Quality Index, an international measure of air pollution), authorities have issued strong warnings: avoid outdoor activities, wear N95 masks in exposed areas, and stay well hydrated.
Children, seniors, and those with respiratory conditions should take extra care. Environment Canada continues to issue advisories and recommends using mobile apps to track air quality in real time. The city has also opened air-conditioned public spaces for those seeking immediate relief.

etc&tal magazine wants to hear from you. How are you coping with the heat and poor air quality? Do you know of cool, safe public places that could help others? Visit etcetal.ca and share your experience. This summer, taking care of yourself and those around you is the greatest act of citizenship.