London lifts burn ban as wildfire smoke clears, outdoor amenities reopen

(Source: City of London)

The City of London has lifted its open-air burn ban after improving air quality conditions prompted officials to impose restrictions last week.

The ban was put in place Thursday as wildfire smoke pushed the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) above 10, a level considered very high risk. City officials said smoke conditions improved over the weekend, allowing the London Fire Department to give residents the green light Monday to resume open-air burning activities.

The easing of restrictions also marks the reopening of several outdoor recreational amenities that were affected by the poor air quality.

Outdoor sports facilities, including soccer fields, baseball diamonds, cricket fields and beach volleyball courts, are now open to the public.

City officials said outdoor pools will reopen at their regular operating times, with a short delay to allow staff to prepare the facilities.

Planned outdoor events will also move ahead as scheduled. That includes the city’s Outdoor Movie Night programming and special events taking place on Dundas Place.

Storybook Gardens is expected to reopen later Monday afternoon.

Residents are still encouraged to monitor local air quality forecasts and follow any future advisories issued by public health and emergency officials.