As part of the observance of National Radon Action Month, University of Nevada Cooperative Extension’s Radon Education Program is offering free short-term radon test kits to Southern Nevadans through Feb. 28.
Radon is a naturally occurring, radioactive gas that is colorless, odorless and tasteless. It comes from the ground and can accumulate in homes, raising the risk of lung cancer. In Nevada, one in four homes tested show radon concentrations at or above the Environmental Protection Agency action level. According to experts, living in a home with radon concentrations at the action level poses a risk of developing lung cancer similar to the risk posed by smoking about half a pack of cigarettes a day.
The risk of radon-caused lung cancer can be reduced. A simple three-day test can determine if a house has a radon problem, and winter is an ideal time to test a home. If radon problems are found, they can be fixed.
A presentation is scheduled for 6 p.m. Feb. 5 at Boulder City Library, 701 Adams Blvd. Free test kits will be available at the presentation, or can be obtained through Feb. 28 at the Clark County Cooperative Extension 8050 Paradise Road, Suite 100, Las Vegas.
Nevadans can also order free test kits online at https://fee4freekit.eventbrite.com, or by mailing in the Radon Test Kit Order form, also available online for printing at http://bit.ly/NRAM18freekit. Ordered test kits will require $4 for shipping.
For more information, call 888-723-6610 or visit www.RadonNV.com.