Words (Core Vocabulary)
- AQHI (Air Quality Health Index) / PM2.5
- air quality advisory / special weather statement
- cooling centre / clean-air shelter
- HEPA filter / MERV rating / air purifier
- N95 / well-fitted mask
- indoor air / ventilation / seal drafts
- heat warning / heat dome / humidex
- hydrate / electrolytes / shade / rest breaks
- at-risk groups: older adults, kids, pregnant, respiratory/heart conditions
Phrases (Check → reduce exposure → get support)
- What’s the AQHI today and the PM2.5 level?
- Is there a smoke or heat advisory, and where are cooling centres?
- Do you recommend closing windows and running a HEPA purifier?
- Is an N95 mask appropriate for outdoor errands today?
- Are there clean-air shelters nearby during peak smoke?
Contextual Examples (Natural, everyday)
- Hot & smoky: AQHI 8 (high) this afternoon—I’ll keep windows closed, run the purifier, and avoid strenuous activity.
- Workplace: Could we shift outdoor tasks to morning and add rest-water breaks?
- Community: Which community centres are open as cooling centres today?
Collocations & Phrases (bold the key words)
Monitoring
- check the AQHI
- watch PM2.5
- follow advisories
Mitigation
- run a HEPA purifier
- seal windows/doors
- wear an N95
- limit outdoor exertion
Heat safety
- seek shade
- hydrate regularly
- use cooling centres
- schedule rest breaks
Canadian Cultural Context (How to sound natural & polite)
- Many cities publish AQHI and cooling/clean-air locations during events.
- Buildings may recirculate air on smoky days; ask about filters (HEPA/MERV).
- Check on neighbours and older adults during heat or smoke events.
Emergency: For severe breathing issues, call 911.
Extra Mini-Patterns (plug-and-play)
- Ask: “What’s the AQHI and PM2.5 now, and are cooling centres open?”
- Home: “Should I keep windows closed and run the purifier on high?”
- Mask: “Is an N95 recommended for outdoor errands today?”