As wildfire seasons grow longer and more intense across Alberta, protecting your lungs has never been more important. Whether you live in Calgary, Red Deer, Edmonton, Fort McMurray, or anywhere in between, poor air quality can pose serious risks—especially for people with asthma, COPD, heart disease, or other chronic conditions.
At Advanced Respiratory Care Network (ARC Network), our mission is to help Albertans breathe easier. One of the most effective tools to guide your daily choices is Alberta’s Air Quality Health Index (AQHI). Here’s what it means, how to use it, and what to do when the air turns smoky.
What Is the AQHI?
The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) is a public health tool developed by Health Canada and Environment and Climate Change Canada. It uses a scale from 1 to 10+ to measure the short-term health risks associated with air pollution. The higher the number, the greater the health risk:
|
AQHI Level |
Risk Category |
What It Means |
|
1–3 |
Low Risk |
Ideal for outdoor activities |
|
4–6 |
Moderate Risk |
Sensitive individuals (children, seniors, those with asthma, COPD, or heart disease) should reduce strenuous outdoor activity |
|
7–10 |
High Risk |
Everyone should limit outdoor exertion |
|
10+ |
Very High Risk |
Stay indoors and take extra precautions |
You can check the AQHI for your community using:
- The WeatherCAN app (free from Environment Canada)
- Environment Canada’s AQHI map
Why Air Quality Matters for Your Lungs
Wildfire smoke and urban pollution contain fine particulate matter (PM2.5)—tiny particles that can travel deep into your lungs and even enter your bloodstream. Exposure to poor air quality is linked to:
- Worsening asthma and COPD symptoms
- Increased risk of heart attacks and strokes
- Irritated eyes, throat, and sinuses
- Headaches, dizziness, and fatigue
For vulnerable populations, there is no safe level of smoke exposure. That’s why monitoring AQHI and adjusting your routine is essential.
How to Use AQHI Forecasts in Daily Life
AQHI values are updated hourly and include forecast highs for both day and night. Here’s how to make it part of your daily planning:
Morning Check-In
Review the AQHI before heading to work, school, or outdoor activities. If the index is above 6, consider rescheduling outdoor exercise or choosing indoor alternatives.
Commute Smart
- Drive with windows closed and air conditioning set to recirculate
- If walking or biking, avoid high-traffic areas and peak pollution times
Protect Your Indoor Air
- Run HEPA filters or air purifiers
- Keep windows and doors closed during high-risk days
- Set your HVAC system to recirculate rather than bringing in outdoor air
Mask When Needed
On high AQHI days, wear a well-fitting N95 or KN95 mask if you must be outside. These masks help filter out fine particles more effectively than cloth masks.
Tips for Protecting Your Lungs During Smoke Events
When AQHI levels are elevated due to wildfire smoke or pollution, take these steps to reduce exposure:
- Stay indoors, especially if you have heart or lung conditions
- Replace furnace filters regularly and consider using portable HEPA air cleaners
- Avoid strenuous outdoor activity, even if you feel fine
- Visit public places like malls, libraries, or community centres with filtered air
- Monitor symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, or chest tightness. If they worsen, seek medical care promptly
Tip: If you use inhalers or oxygen therapy, make sure your equipment is clean and ready during smoke season.
Protect Your Lungs Today
Wildfire smoke and poor air quality aren’t just inconvenient—they’re real health hazards. By learning to read and respond to Alberta’s AQHI, you can take proactive steps to protect your lungs, heart, and overall well-being.
At Advanced Respiratory Care Network, we support Albertans with:
- Respiratory consultations
- Lung function testing
- Asthma and COPD management
- Education on air quality and respiratory protection
If smoke and poor air quality are affecting your breathing, book a consultation with our team today.