Renfrew opening clean air shelters for residents

Ottawa's air among the worst in the world The smoky air in Ottawa meant the capital had some of the worst air quality in the world Wednesday. CTV's Jeremie Charron reports.

Clean air shelters are being opened in Renfrew to provide residents some relief from the wildfire smoke.

A special air quality statement remains in effect for Ottawa and the Ottawa Valley, warning of high levels of air pollution due to smoke from forest fires.

"Smoke plumes from forest fires in Quebec and northeastern Ontario have resulted in deteriorated air quality. Air quality may improve on Thursday before deteriorating again on Friday," Environment Canada said.

"Air quality and visibility due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably from hour to hour."

The Town of Renfrew says clean air shelters will be open this week for residents to find "clean and cool air."

"The safety and wellbeing of the community is our top priority, and these shelters will be available to anyone who needs a safe place to breathe clean air," Renfrew Fire Chief Michael Guest said.

The three shelters are:

A wildfire has been burning on Centennial Lake, 70 km south of Renfrew.