Special Air Quality Statement 

Posted on Tuesday, June 6th, 2023

Environment Canada has issued a Special Air Quality Statement for the regions encompassing Ottawa, Pembroke and Perth with the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) being in the high-risk category due to wildfire smoke. 

You can find the latest Environment Canada statements at the links below:

Ottawa – Ottawa, Ontario – Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) – Environment Canada (weather.gc.ca)

Perth – Alerts for: Smiths Falls – Perth – Eastern Lanark County – Environment Canada (weather.gc.ca)

Pembroke – Alerts for: Petawawa – Pembroke – Cobden – Environment Canada (weather.gc.ca)

Township of Greater Madawaska (west of Ottawa) – Information Release – June 6 – (greatermadawaska.com)

Learners and employees are encouraged to monitor air quality for their regions and follow best practices, as health officials are advising the general population to reduce or reschedule strenuous outdoor activities, especially if they experience symptoms such as coughing and throat irritation. It is suggested that learners studying outside, in programs such as Forestry, consider wearing a mask, such as an N95, for added protection.

Please visit this link for more information on how you can best protect yourself in poor air quality conditions.

It should also be noted that since the COVID-19 pandemic, Facilities Management has been working to ensure that HVAC systems are operating efficiently and where possible using MERV 13 or the highest-rated air filter possible. Fresh air dampers are also being limited to mitigate the smoke as much as possible inside buildings.

College leadership will continue to monitor the situation via Environment Canada, consult with Ottawa Public Health and other local health partners, and provide updates as the situation changes throughout the week and as necessary.

Thank you,

Duane McNair

Vice-President

Finance and Administration

T 613.727.4723 x6370


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