January is National Radon Action Month and the University of Nevada, Reno Extension's Radon Education Program is offering free short-term radon test kits to Nevadans in January and February.
Radon is a naturally occurring, radioactive gas that is colorless, odorless and tasteless. It comes from the ground and can accumulate in homes, raising the risk of lung cancer. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates 21,000 Americans die each year from radon-caused lung cancer, killing more people than secondhand smoke, drunk driving and house fires.
In Nevada, one in four homes tested show radon concentrations at or above the EPA action level. According to experts, living in a home with radon concentrations at the action level poses a risk of developing lung cancer similar to the risk posed by smoking about half a pack of cigarettes a day.
The risk of radon-caused lung cancer can be reduced. A simple three-day test can determine if a house has a radon problem, and winter is an ideal time to test a home for radon. If radon problems are found, they can be fixed. It is recommended to test homes every two years for radon risk.
Tests can be picked up at the locations below:
- 4955 Energy Way
Reno, NV 89502 - 9190 Double Diamond Parkway #118
Reno, NV - 980 Incline Way
Incline Village, NV 89451 - 5335 Kietzke Lane, Suite 210
Reno, NV 89511 - 2621 Northgate Ln., Suite 15
Carson City, NV 89706 - 111 Sheckler Rd.
Fallon, NV 89406 - 1325 Waterloo
Gardnerville, NV 89410 - 100 Mill St.
Virginia City, NV - 800 Peri Ranch Road
Lockwood, NV