Test for Radon

Kathy Lupfer-Nielsen, Family Consumer Science Agent

Radon is a natural, tasteless, odorless, colorless, radioactive gas produced from the decay of uranium found in nearly all soils. It moves from the ground under and around your home through cracks and other holes in the foundation. Current Kansas data indicates that one in four houses in Kansas may have elevated radon levels.

Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among nonsmokers. For that reason, many of us need to be testing our homes. Many scientists believe children may run an even greater risk from radon exposure than adults, and smokers are definitely at great risk than nonsmokers. Surgeon General’s office, the American Lung Association, the American Medical Association and the Environmental Protection Agency advise that all homes be tested.

If you look at the graphic below, you can see that Post Rock District Counties have higher than 4pCi/l which is the EPA’s recommended action level.

Low cost test kits are available in the local extension offices or the county health offices.

If you’d like to read more information on radon, check out the Kansas Radon website at http://www.kansasradonprogram.org/kram. Here you can find fact sheets as well as information on hiring mitigation contractors for repair in your home.