Russian fire-fighters are reporting progress in battling some of the worst wild fires in the country's history, but Moscow is still looking for relief from thick smog choking the city. Moscow city officials say airborne pollutants like carbon monoxide are at least four times higher than normal. Health officials warned people to limit physical activity and wear surgical masks over their faces if they venture outside to avoid the noxious smog. The poor visibility also affected activity at Moscow's airports, where several flights were grounded or diverted. The National Emergencies Minister said the fire situation is improving in several major regions east of Moscow. Forest fires burning near Moscow have covered the city with thick smoke and residents are finding it almost impossible to escape. Several foreign embassies have started evacuating the non-emergency personnel.