Health unit has distributed all its free home radon test kits

Due to the overwhelming response, the radon test kits offered free from the Grey Bruce Health Unit, have all been distributed. Those who have been put on a waiting list will receive a test kit in the coming weeks. No additional free kits will be available from the health unit. 

The kits can be purchased for about $40-$60 on-line and from home building stores. Just make sure to use the long-term kit. A list of certified kits can be found at http://c-nrpp.ca/approved-radon-measurement-devices/

The health unit distributed 600 free home test kits as part of November Radon Awareness Month. Radon exposure is the second-leading cause of lung cancer behind smoking. An estimated 20 per cent of lung cancer deaths in Grey Bruce were due to radon.

Radon is a naturally-occurring radioactive gas that may accumulate in a home. Radon is colourless and odourless; it can enter a home anywhere there is contact with the ground, such as basements. Testing is the only way to know if it is present.

Test kits are left in a home for three months. They are then mailed, in the envelope provided, for analysis and results are sent back. All homes regardless of age, single or multi-storey, slab or with basement, can have radon.