Environment Canada's air quality health index had the northern part of Metro Vancouver rated at 7 just before 6:30 this morning.

That puts it in the "high risk" category, as opposed to the low-risk ratings of 3 and 2 for southest Metro Vancouver and southwest Metro Vancouver, respectively.

A high-risk rating means that children and the elderly should take it easy and reduce or reschedule strenuous activities.

At any rating between 7 and 10, the general population should also consider reducing or rescheduling strenuous outdoor activities if they're coughing for feeling throat irritation.

The only other B.C. community with a higher rating this morning was Kamloops, at 8.

Williams Lake's air quality was 3 early in the morning, but it's expected to reach 10 today.