MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Milwaukee city leaders are urging people to stay indoors as wildfire smoke continues to push air quality to record levels across the city.

Officials held a news conference Thursday afternoon to address the hazardous conditions and outline changes to city operations.

According to city leaders, Milwaukee County's Air Quality Index climbed above 600, marking the worst air quality ever recorded in the county and more than doubling the previous record.

For people spending time outside, the conditions have been difficult.

"It's hard to breathe, and with the humidity, it's even worse," Peggy Hartnett, a FedEx worker, said.

Health Commissioner Mike Totoraitis said residents should take the air quality alert seriously.

"You can feel it in your throat, coughing, and can get headaches, so we're really advising everyone to take this seriously and to take the steps to protect yourself right now," Totoraitis said.

Health officials are urging people to stay indoors, keep their windows closed, and avoid unnecessary time outside. The city is also making sure employees who must work outdoors have access to protective masks. 

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The poor air quality has also changed city services. Only emergency outdoor work is continuing. Garbage and recycling collection have been suspended, and city drop-off centers are closed until conditions improve.

"With the numbers being close to 600, it is unsafe for them to be outside. As the weather changes, we will catch up on garbage and recycling," Department of Public Works Commissioner Jerrel Kruschke said.

Milwaukee police officers and Milwaukee County sheriff's deputies are also being allowed to wear masks while the air quality advisory remains in effect.

"I think it's important for us to recognize that this is a special circumstance, and I want our officers to be safe when they're out in the community protecting and serving Milwaukee," Mayor Cavalier Johnson said.

The smoke is also changing plans for people across the city.

"I'm not running today, I'm walking. Normally I'll run my route but I'm walking it today. It's pretty bad," Hartnett said.

"I saw how smoky it is and it's really affecting me. I was going to go to Planet Fitness to work out but decided not to go just because of how smoky it is and everything," resident Bobby Kujwa said.

The air quality alert remains in effect. Health officials are urging residents to continue checking air quality conditions and limit time outdoors until conditions improve.