The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare wants to remind Idahoans that test kits are available at www.radonidaho.org to test for the presence of radon inside of your home.
“Radon is definitely a big problem because it’s so prevalent,” said Jim Faust, Radon Program manager at the Department of Health and Welfare. “The good news is that it is a fixable problem. Every home in Idaho should be tested so we can protect ourselves and our families.”
Nearly 40% of Idaho homes tested for radon showed unsafe levels which can result in lung cancer and other illnesses.
The gas is naturally occurring and can’t be seen, tasted or smelled.
The EPA estimates that the gas causes 21,000 deaths a year in the United States.
The highest levels of radon are found during winter when homes are closed up tight for insulation. The gas typically rises upwards from basements, crawl spaces and foundation cracks in a home.
To test your home for the gas, the kits can be found hereat a cost of $9.95.
The kit includes a test with easy to follow instructions, shipping costs and lab analysis.
You can also call the Idaho CareLine at 211 to order the kit.
