Info-Smog is an air quality forecast and warning service that informs and advises the public when smog has or is likely to reach levels harmful to health and the environment.

There are three categories in the air quality forecasts: good, acceptable and poor. A smog advisory is issued when poor air quality is forecast for particular regions.

The Info-Smog programme is administered by Environment Canada in cooperation with the Ministère du Développement durable, de l'Environnement et des Parcs (MDDEP), the Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux (MSSS) du Québec and the Directions de santé publique (DSP), along with the City of Montré

Source: Environment Canada and Montréal's Direction de santé publique (DSP)

• Summer smog forms mainly on very hot, sunny days. It consists primarily of fine particulates and ozone, most of which come from vehicle exhaust and industrial sources.
• Winter smog forms when there is a high concentration of fine particulates. In Québec, residential wood heating is the primary source, followed by industry and transportation. 
• Smog is a phenomenon that can occur in urban, suburban and rural areas alike.

Smog especially affects more sensitive people, in particular young children and people who have asthma, bronchitis, emphysema or cardiac problems. 

When the air quality is bad or a smog advisory is in effect, sensitive persons are advised to limit their outdoor activities and avoid outdoor exercise.

What can you do to protect yourself?

To lower the quantity of pollutants in the atmosphere during a smog episode, people are advised

• to use public transit during the summer; and
• to use public transit and avoid using wood stoves and fireplaces during the winter.

During a smog episode, people with heart or respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis or emphysema should avoid engaging in strenuous outdoor activities.

To find out more about air quality, visit the website of the Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux (website in french only).  

Also see: 

• Feeling like clearing the air? 
• Air quality forecasts and smog advisories on Environment Canada's Info-Smog page
• The air quality index for Montréal on the website of the City of Montréal. 

Whom should you contact to get help? 

In the event of a health problem, speak with a doctor or call Info-Santé at 811. 

Where can you find additional, credible information? 

• Développement durable, Environnement et Parcs Québec – Air Quality Index