Nearly 600 Delaware County Households Pick Up Radon Test Kits

There was an outstanding response to the free radon testing being offered by Delaware County Public Health a couple weeks ago.

Over the course of just three days – September 29th through October 1st – nearly six hundred free test kits were picked up by Delaware County residents who wanted to test their homes for radon.

Delaware County Public Health Administrator Krystle DeShaw says this goes to show that Delaware County residents are committed to their well-being and that they understand the negative impact radon can have on their health. 

Often called an “invisible killer”, radon is an odorless, colorless and tasteless gas that is harmful to people’s health. It is the number one cause of lung cancer in nonsmokers. As many as 5 in 7 homes across Iowa have elevated radon levels. Radon comes naturally from the ground. It can enter and build up inside any building–new or old–without warning, causing risk to all who live inside. Fortunately, testing for radon and fixing any radon problems are quick, easy and can save residents’ lives. 

Each Delaware County household was eligible to pick up one free radon test kit – thanks to a grant provided by the Foundation for the Future of Delaware County. And if you did not pick up a test kit, Delaware County Public Health is urging you to seek one out. 

Find more information about radon testing, facts and prevention through the American Lung Association by calling their help line (1-800-383-5992) or visit lung.org/radon.

photo courtesy of Delaware County Public Health