The Wilton Health Department is joining the CT State Department of Public Health (DPH) in urging residents to test their homes for radon gas, the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. Health officials estimate that radon is responsible for more than 21,000 lung cancer deaths each year in the United States.
To assist in the effort, the Wilton Health Department is offering free radon test kits. [UPDATE 12:15 P.M.: Quantities are now limited; call the Health Dept. office at 203.563.0174 to check availability.]
A naturally occurring radioactive gas formed from the natural decay of uranium, radon is found in rock, soil and water. While radon in outdoor air poses a relatively low threat to human health, it can enter homes from the surrounding soil and become a health hazard inside buildings.
Because you can’t see or smell radon, people are often unaware that this silent killer could be in their homes. Testing for radon and reducing elevated levels is important and could save your life or the lives of your loved ones.
The DPH Radon Program recommends that all Connecticut homes should be tested for radon. Testing is recommended in the winter months, when radon tends to be highest. Testing homes for radon is simple and inexpensive.
In addition to the kits available at the Wilton Health Department, radon test kits can be purchased at many hardware stores and from the American Lung Association of New England by calling 860.289.5401 or visiting their website at: www.lungne.org
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends that homes with radon levels at 4.0 pCi/L or higher should be remediated. Homeowners can further reduce their potential lung cancer risk by remediating homes that are below 4 pCi/L. Smokers exposed to radon have a much higher risk for developing lung cancer.
Radon problems can be corrected by qualified radon contractors, with costs typically ranging between $1,200 and $1,500. A homeowner should hire a qualified radon mitigation (reduction) contractor to decrease airborne radon levels.
DPH produced a new video, which provides step-by-step instruction on how to test your home for radon.
To learn more about radon and to obtain a list of qualified radon mitigation contractors, please visit the DPH Radon Program web site at www.ct.gov/dph/radon or call 860.509.7367. Or contact the Wilton Health Department at 203.563.0174. The Health Department offices are located at Wilton’s Town Hall Annex Building, 238 Danbury Rd..