The AQHI is divided into four categories:
"Low" AQHI is 1 - 3. At Risk Population: Enjoy your usual outdoor activities. General Population: Ideal air
quality for outdoor activities.
"Moderate" AQHI is 4 - 6. At Risk Population: Consider reducing or rescheduling strenuous activities outdoors
if you are experiencing symptoms. General Population: No need to modify your usual outdoor activities unless
you experience symptoms such as coughing and throat irritation.
"High" AQHI is 7 - 10. At Risk Population: Reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors. Children and
the elderly should also take it easy. General Population: Consider reducing or rescheduling strenuous
activities outdoors if you experience symptoms such as coughing and throat irritation.
"Very high" AQHI higher than 10. At Risk Population: Avoid strenuous activities outdoors. Children and the
elderly should also avoid outdoor physical exertion. General Population: Reduce or reschedule strenuous
activities outdoors, especially if you experience symptoms such as coughing and throat irritation.
For more information about "At Risk Population", please follow this link
The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) is a new public information tool that helps Canadians protect their health
on a daily basis from the negative effects of air pollution. This tool has been developed by Health Canada and
Environment Canada, in collaboration with the provinces and key health and environment stakeholders.
The use Licence can be found here.
