Radon test kits are available free from the Grey Bruce Health Unit as part of November Radon Awareness Month. Radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer behind smoking. An estimated 20% 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 story, slab or with basement can have radon. A Radon map, created in 2011, shows potential areas of risk including parts of Grey and Bruce Counties.

Free radon test kits are available, while supplies last, at:

Grey Bruce Health Unit: 101 17th Street East, Owen Sound

South East Grey Community Health Centre: 44 Victoria St., Markdale

Lion's Head Family Health Team: 24 Moore St., Lion's Head

Huron Kinloss Municipal Office: 21 Queen St., Ripley

Town of Hanover: 341 10th St., Hanover

West Grey Municipal Office: 402813 Rd 4, Durham

Town of Blue Mountains: 32 Mill St., Thornbury

Municipality of Arran-Elderslie: 1925 Bruce Road 10, Chesley

Municipality of Brockton: 100 Scott Street, Walkerton

source: media release, Grey Bruce Health Unit