Today’s Air Quality

The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) is a tool that communicates the level of health risk associated with short term exposures to outdoor air pollution in your area. It is measured on a scale of 1 to 10+ , the lower the number, the lower the health risk.

• AQHI 1-3: Low risk
  
• AQHI 4-6: Moderate risk
  
• AQHI 7-10: High risk
  
• AQHI 10+: Very high risk
  

Keep track of air quality in your area to help you plan your activities and protect your family from potential health risks while outdoors.

When there is the potential for poor air quality that may pose a health risk, the Province of Ontario and Environment Canada issue an air quality alert. For information about Environment and Climate Change Canada's colour-coded weather alerts, please visit Colour-coded weather alerts - Canada.ca (external link)

Monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada or download the WeatherCAN app (external link) for the most-up-to-date information on air quality in your area.

Wildfire smoke can be carried hundreds or thousands of kilometres from a fire zone and is a major source of harmful air pollutants. There is no safe level of exposure for most of these pollutants. Smoke can cause negative health effects even at very low levels when we may not be able to see or smell it.

During heavy smoke conditions, everyone is at risk regardless of their age or health. Exposure to smoke can result in milder symptoms such as eye and throat irritation, cough, runny nose and headaches.

Limit time outdoors

The best way to protect your health is to reduce your exposure to wildfire smoke. Consider reducing or rescheduling strenuous activities outdoors. If you feel unwell or have difficulty breathing, stop altogether.

When indoors keep windows and doors closed

Opening windows and doors may let in more polluted air.

Prioritize keeping cool during extreme heat

If it is too warm indoors, turn on air conditioning, if possible. If you do not have air conditioning, seek out an indoor public place that is cool and ventilated, such as a library, shopping mall or recreation centre.

Improve indoor air

Use the best quality air filter that your ventilation system can handle and follow manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure your system is on recirculate. You can also consider using a portable air cleaner (external link) or Do-It-Yourself (DIY) air cleaners (external link).

Reduce sources of indoor air contaminants (external link)

Avoid smoking or vaping indoors, frying foods and limit the use of any combustion sources such as incense and candles, when possible. Store cleaning products, paints and solvents in areas away from living spaces.