Where can I find out if our local air quality is unhealthy?
- Information on your local air quality, and steps to take to reduce exposure to air pollution, can be found using the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI). The AQHI is reported every day as part of local weather forecasts.
- The AQHI is a scale from 1 to 10+ that forecasts local air quality in relation to health risk. For example, an AQHI level of 1 indicates low risk. An AQHI of 7 indicates high risk, recommending that at-risk populations such as children reduce or reschedule strenuous activities.
- Infants and children are at higher risk of health problems when exposed to air pollution. Monitoring the AQHI and adjusting activities based on forecasted air pollution levels and health messages can help keep children healthy and safe.
- This Health Canada resource provides more details on the AQHI including local conditions, forecasts and wildfire smoke
- This aqmap.ca provides information on current levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) outdoors across Canada.
Click here for a compilation of the references used in developing this FAQ and additional helpful resources.
Click here for more FAQs: Climate-related Indoor Air Quality Concerns in Learning Settings