Air Quality

Radon is a radioactive gas found naturally in the environment. It is produced by the decay of uranium found in soil, rock and groundwater. The gas is invisible, odourless and tasteless; however, it can cause serious health problems. Typically, health issues, such as lung cancer, develop from long exposure in a confined and poorly ventilated space. 

You can test your home for radon by hiring a certified radon measurement professional. Visit the National Radon Proficiency Program for a list of certified radon testing companies. You can also test radon levels yourself using a radon test kit. Visit Take Action on Radon for more information on radon and where you can buy a test kit for your home. 

The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) is a tool that helps you understand what the air quality around you means to your health. The AQHI measures air quality on a scale from one to 10 and categorizes health risks associated with air quality from low to very high risk. 

Visit the Local Air Quality Health Index and Air Quality Ontario websites for air quality conditions and suggestions on how you might limit your short-term exposure and adjust your activity levels depending on your individual health risk from air pollution.

Protect yourself when the air quality is poor:

• Check your local air quality forecast or AQHI.
• Avoid or reduce the amount of time spent outside, especially during the late afternoon.
• Avoid or limit exercise near busy streets.
• Stay indoors in a cool environment if possible.

Learn more about what you can do to improve air quality. 

Special Air Quality Statements (SAQS) and Smog and Air Health Advisories (SAHAs) may be issued by the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks in collaboration with Environment and Climate Change Canada when the quality of the air presents a risk to your health. 

SAQS may be issued when there is a potential for outdoor air quality to become poor as a result of weather forecasts, wildfire smoke,  or pollutants, etc. These are generally short-term events (less than 2 hours).  SAHAs are generally longer term events (greater than 3 hours in duration) and create conditions that  poor air quality will persist leading to greater health risks to those who are vulnerable.