Photo by Fremont Tribune
According to Joel Haman, supervisor of public risk at the Three Rivers District Health Department in Fremont, Nebraska radon is much more prevalant in the area than most people realize. Of course, this is true of all areas in the country considering radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer. It is responsible for the deaths of more than 20,000 Americans each year.
Haman points out that while the national radon level average is 1.3 picoliters (pCi/L), “Saunders County average is 7.8.”
“It’s the highest in our jurisdiction.” His “jurisdiction” is Three Rivers, which includes three counties: Saunders, Washington and Dodge.
The high levels in the area are only part of the reason why the department will be offering free radon test kits.
Free Radon Test Kits Will Be Available for Three Rivers, Nebraska Residents
Haman says that local officials are doing their best to increase awareness about the dangers of radon gas, and its presence. This is certainly commendable, as radon is a long-term killer. In other words, long-term exposure to the deadly gas is what causes the most harm. Therefore, the faster you discover its presence, the faster you can take action and secure your health.
The problem is, radon gas is odorless, colorless and tasteless leaving it virtually indetectable. The only way to discover whether or not it’s a problem in your home, is to conduct very exlusive and specific tests. Luckily, DIY testing kits are relatively inexpensive and experienced radon professionals are easy to come by.
Haman says the department was recently approved a grant, which allows them to provide free radon test kits to residents at no additional cost. Of course, they will be provided on a first come, first served basis which means if you are a Three Rivers local you want to request one immediately.
How to Use the Free Radon Test Kits
There’s no need to worry that the testing process will be above your expertise. The test kit includes everything you need, and it’s easy to setup. You will have to know some basics before you get started, however. As Haman says, “the process is picking up a kit and following the instructions.”
Since radon is a dense gas, it will collect in the lowest areas of a residence or home. That’s why it’s a good idea to test your basement – if you have one – or the first story. Once you setup the kit by placing the air sample collectors in the appropriate place, you want to avoid opening and closing doors or windows. The two best times to test a home are during the summer and winter months, and since it’s currently the latter time of year that means it’s a great time to do so.
The samples will be sent to a remote lab, and the results will be mailed back. If elevated levels are discovered – exceeding the recommended action limit of 4.0 pCi/L – then mitigation is necessary. Mitigation simply involves installing a ventilation system to remove the radon gas from the residence.
Where to Get Supplies If You Don’t Receive One of the Free Radon Test Kits
If you don’t make the cut and there are no test kits available, you can always find them at a local hardware store or online.
We advise you to have your home tested as soon as possible, whether you live in the Three Rivers area or elsewhere. Radon can be a problem anywhere, since it is released by uranium and other elements commonly found in soil and rocks in the ground.
Via: Wahoo Newspaper
