Smoke Policy Addendum

As outlined in our league policy, Urban Rec does not automatically cancel league play based on current weather or air quality conditions. However, we want to provide some additional clarity around what teams can expect when air quality is a concern.

AQHI of 7 or Higher – Opt-Out Option

If the Government of Canada Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) reaches 7 or higher, we will offer teams the option to opt out of their scheduled game without penalty. https://weather.gc.ca/airquality/pages/bcaq-008_e.html

When this occurs, captains can expect an email from us between 12:00pm and 3:00pm. Teams wishing to opt out will need to respond by 4:00pm so we have enough time to adjust the evening schedule.

If the AQHI has not reached 7 by 3:00pm, games will remain scheduled as normal. Teams should report to the venue and can assess the conditions at game time and make their own decision regarding whether they are comfortable playing.

Playoff Games
Because playoff games affect advancement, opting out may impact the playoff bracket:

  • If both teams opt out and we are unable to restructure the schedule while maintaining the playoff format, the advancing team will be determined based on the current standings.
  • If only one team opts out, the team that is prepared to play will advance.
  • For seeding matches, if the game cannot be played, we will move into next week's semifinals using the most appropriate matchups based on the current standings.

Opting Out Below an AQHI of 7
Teams may still request to opt out when the AQHI is below 7. However, we can only accommodate the request without penalty if doing so does not negatively affect another team's schedule, such as requiring another team to play a doubleheader.

If we cannot accommodate the request, the game will remain scheduled and the regular default policy and applicable default fine will apply.

Our goal is to give teams flexibility when air quality reaches higher-risk levels while still allowing adult participants to make their own decisions based on the conditions and their individual circumstances. We do still hold the right to outright cancel leagues, we just hope teams know themselves better than we do.