$5 Radon Tests Available for County Homeowners

Did you know that even if you have never smoked a cigarette in your life, you could still be at risk of developing lung cancer? That’s because radon, a colorless, odorless, and tasteless radioactive gas that occurs naturally in soil, is the second leading cause of the disease. It has been found in high concentrations in some homes in Sheboygan County, and if you do smoke, your risk of lung cancer is even higher with radon exposure.

While some areas of the county may test lower for radon, it’s important to remember that radon levels can vary even within a single neighborhood. The only way to know for sure if your home has high radon levels is to test.

During January, National Radon Action Month, the Sheboygan County Division of Public Health is offering radon test kits at reduced prices. A short-term kit, which is recommended as a first step, is available for only $5, while a long-term test kit – which is more accurate and should also be used if the first one comes back high – is available for just $10. You can pick up a kit at the Health and Human Services Department on North 8th Street during normal business hours, or call 920-459-3207 or visit http://www.lowradon.org/ for more information.