Ottawa blanketed in wildfire smoke: Air quality is hazardous to health

Residents in and around Ottawa are advised to avoid being outdoors due to heavy smoke from wildfires. According to the federal Air Quality Index, pollution levels reached "10 - high risk" on Friday evening.

Environment Canada predicts that smoke will continue to linger in Eastern Ontario and Western Quebec through Saturday. Poor visibility and a deterioration in health are expected.

Possible symptoms include eye irritation, throat irritation, headache, cough. The elderly, pregnant women, children, people with chronic diseases and those who work outside are especially vulnerable.

Residents are advised to postpone sports and outdoor activities, close windows and doors.