Jefferson County Public Health encourages all
residents to have their homes tested for radon gas, a naturally occurring gas
that you can’t see, smell, or taste, but it could be present at a dangerous
level in your home. According to the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon is the leading cause of lung
cancer deaths among nonsmokers in America and claims the lives of about 21,000
Americans and 500 Coloradans each year.
Elevated levels of radon have been found in homes
all across the country. In Colorado, all
64 counties are at risk for radon. Due
to the gas’s unpredictable nature, two houses right next to each other may have
very different radon levels. Testing is
the only way to know for certain if you and your loved ones are at risk.
January is an excellent time to test your home.
Testing requires all windows and doors be closed, but is simple to do.
Residents in Jefferson and Gilpin counties can now pick up a free testing kit
while supplies last and on a first come, first serve basis at Jefferson County
Public Health Environmental Health Services. Visit us at 645 Parfet Street in
Lakewood. When new kits are ordered, residents will be able to purchase
short-term test kits for $10.00. Long-term test kits are also available at
local hardware stores, supermarkets and other retail outlets.
For more information on radon, radon testing, and
radon mitigation call 1-800-846-3986 or JCPH Environmental Specialist John Moody at 303-271-5714.
Resources:
- Jefferson County
Public Health website – jeffco.us/public-health
- Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
- Environmental
Protection Agency website - www.epa.gov/radon/nram/
