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 collect in a home. Radon is colourless and odourless; it can enter a home anywhere there is contact with the ground, such as basements. All homes regardless of age, single or multi-story, slab or with basement can have radon. Testing is the only way to know if it is present. Test kits are left in a home for three months. After three months, the test unit is mailed to the lab for analysis in a pre-paid envelope provided with the kit. Individuals will receive the test results directly.
Free radon test kits are available to residents of Grey and Bruce including First Nations, by mail, while supplies last. Kits include the testing unit, instructions, information on radon and a pre-paid envelope to return the kits to the testing lab. Order yours online at https://www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca/Your-Environment/Healthy-Housing/Radon/Radon-Registration
or by phoning the Health Unit at 1-800-263-3456.
source: media release, Grey Bruce Health Unit