Wildfire Smoke Forces Summer Camps to Adapt Across Canada

Summer camp providers in several areas are adjusting their activities due to wildfire smoke and air quality warnings. These providers are prioritizing the safety of campers by shifting activities indoors or making other modifications.

Environment Canada issued air quality warnings for much of Central Canada, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan on Monday due to smoke from wildfires in northern Ontario and the Prairies. Smoke also drifted into Quebec and Atlantic Canada.

Crestwood Valley Day Camp in Toronto, for example, quickly moved all programming indoors in response to parent inquiries and poor air quality. The camp hopes that poor air quality doesn't become a regular occurrence, as it would significantly alter the camp experience.

Other camps are also adapting. Some are designing programs that take place in the shade and avoid overexertion. They have staff trained to recognize signs of overexertion and have medical professionals on site.

The YMCA, with locations across the GTA, is modifying its outdoor programming, opting for low-intensity games. They also offer values-based programs that can be used on days when outdoor activity is not advised. Staff are trained in first-aid and CPR, and they closely monitor children, especially those with asthma.

The City of Toronto's CampTO locations have access to indoor spaces and adjust programming accordingly. In Ottawa, wildfire smoke has not yet impacted programming this summer.

The University of Saskatchewan's USask Rec program is also making operational changes to ensure the safety of children. Programming is being moved indoors when smoke levels exceed a certain threshold.

In Manitoba, the City of Winnipeg directs program leaders to spend more time indoors and reduce intense physical activity when smoke is particularly bad.