Radon
Radon is a tasteless, odorless, colorless radioactive gas produced from the decay of uranium found in nearly all soils.
There were several homes and businesses in Greensburg that had radon issues before the 2007 tornado. With that being said, there can still be problems with radon in homes and businesses even though they are new buildings.
Radon testing results in Kansas show there is a need for more testing. Current data indicates that one in four homes in Kansas may have elevated levels. In Kiowa County that level could be higher.
KDHE has a map of Kansas showing the levels of Radon in tests done for each county. Red is for readings over 4.0 pCi/L and Kiowa County is one of the red counties.
Radon is rated by pCi/L. Currently the Kansas Radon Program’s database of radon tests conducted in Kansas has greater than 50,000 measurements. The average residential radon test in Kansas is currently 4.8 pCi/L, or in excess of the EPA’s action level of 4.0 pCi/L. The maximum reported radon value in Kansas to date is 260 pCi/L.
Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among nonsmokers. Given the increased potential for lung cancer the radon hazard brings, why would you not test your home?
The Surgeon General’s Office, the American Lung Association, the American Lung Association the American Medical Association and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognize that indoor radon constitutes a substantial health risk. They have publicly advised that all homes be tested.
All homeowners should measure radon levels in their homes. A neighbor’s reading cannot substitute for a reading in your home. A do – it – yourself radon test is economical, easy to use, reliable, and readily available.
Testing your home for radon will not disrupt your daily routine. However for the 12 hours before and throughout a short-term test, keep doors and windows closed as much as possible. That is why this time of year is the best time to test.
Locate test kits where you spend the most time on the lowest livable level of the home. Living rooms or bedrooms are good spots, especially if they are in basements.
Testing the basement and first and second floors at the same time can help you relate radon levels to where you spend the most time.
If this information has convinced you to test your home, we have test kits available here at the Kiowa County Extension Office. These are short-term tests and are very economical to purchase. Stop by and pick up one or more to test your home.
If you would like more information on Radon visit the following web site: www.kansasradonprogram.org.
