When indoors, keep windows and doors closed as much as possible. When there is an extreme heat event occurring with poor air quality, prioritize keeping cool.
Protect your indoor air from wildfire smoke. Actions can include using a clean, good quality air filter in your ventilation system and/or a certified portable air cleaner that can filter fine particles.
If you must spend time outdoors, a well-constructed, well-fitting and properly worn respirator type mask (such as a NIOSH-certified N95 or equivalent respirator) can reduce your exposure to the fine particles in the smoke. Even though exposure may be reduced, there can still be risks to health.
Check in on others who are in your care or live nearby who may be more likely to be impacted by outdoor air pollution.
Always follow guidance from local authorities.
Learn more at https://www.canada.ca/wildfire-smoke.
Smoke is causing or expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility.
Wildfire smoke is expected over the area this morning into early afternoon.
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As smoke levels increase, health risks increase. Limit time outdoors. Consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events.
You may experience mild and common symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough. More serious but less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pains or severe cough. If you think you are having a medical emergency, seek immediate medical assistance.
People more likely to be impacted by outdoor air pollution, including people aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with an existing illness or chronic health condition, and people who work outdoors, should reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms.
Visit http://www.airhealth.ca for information on how to reduce your health risk and your personal contribution to pollution levels, as well as for current and forecast AQHI values.
Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada.
Bowmanville’s Volt Raceway features Ontario’s longest indoor go-kart track, as well as other activities including axe throwing, a pool hall, arcade and more to come. Ontario tourism destinations are anticipating a good summer season with local visitors.
Bowmanville’s Volt Raceway features Ontario’s longest indoor go-kart track, as well as other activities including axe throwing, a pool hall, arcade and more to come. Ontario tourism destinations are anticipating a good summer season with local visitors.
Businesses in Ontario tourist hot spots should expect to see a flurry of activity soon as Canadians seek out their perfect summer staycation.
“Ontario’s tourism sector is preparing for a unique summer season shaped by patriotism, cross-border uncertainty and rising costs,” said Madison Simmons, vice-president of public affairs with (TIAO) in a press release.
U.S. travel down
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A new survey by TIAO reveals travel bookings into the United States have dropped, as Ontario residents look for staycations, and avoid extra costs related to trade and tariffs.
That reflects Statistics Canada information, which also showed U.S. travel dropped in March and April.
TIAO said the province’s tourism industry is seeing a shifting landscape.
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“Ontario remains the top source market, with most operators noting booking pace that is either the same or better compared to this time last year,” Simmons said.
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Trips cost more from tariffs
However, those travel bookings are costing more this year.
Simmons noted 37 per cent of operators blamed cost increases on U.S. tariffs and supply issues, with 28 per cent saying they regularly sourced goods from America.
The good news is some relief may be on the way, thanks to Ontario government funding. The province announced marketing support for summer 2025 tourism campaigns. There’s also funding for the beverage and agri-tourism field — specifically grape and VQA wine partners, and tax deferrals and WSIB support for businesses to help retain staff.
Last-minute bookings
Simmons added a trend operators are seeing this year is last-minute booking behaviour, which is happening across the province due to cautious consumers.
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Booking behaviours are “marked by shorter windows, flexible group dynamics and higher cancellation rates,” TIAO said.
And while Canadians aren’t making plans to visit the U.S. as much, the reverse is also true — which has some operators concerned.
Being a good host to American guests
Almost one-third of tourism operators reported lower bookings from U.S. visitors for summer 2025 versus last year, TIAO noted in its report.
“American visitation has slowed compared to this time last year amid rising emotional and economic barriers.”
“Concerns are growing over U.S. visitor sentiment and booking pace,” TIAO said.
However, 13 per cent of survey respondents said they are actually seeing more Americans.
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And some Canadian provinces are trying to encourage more U.S. tourists. For example, a border municipality in New Brunswick is hosting its annual in August, and is inviting guests from Maine to come, with a theme of “We are family, We Hug It Out.”
Metroland Media wants to know if you are making travel plans this summer, and if you’re staying local.
Are you planning to travel this summer?
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Disclaimer: Reader survey results are not scientific. As the informal findings of a survey presented to the readers of this site, they reflect the opinions of those who have chosen to participate. The survey is available online to anyone interested in taking it. This poll does not restrict the number of votes each person can cast.
Take our Travel Ontario survey
Do you have a favourite Ontario road trip route, camping spot, restaurant or foodie spot everyone should check out? What about the stops along the way for a great day-trip adventure? Let us know.
is an award-winning journalist covering Simcoe County for more than 22 years. She is mom to two boys who are into sports and tech. She can be reached at JRamsay@simcoe.com. Follow Simcoe.com on X, formerly Twitter.
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