Two Metro Detroit counties offering discounts of some sort on radon kits

The Connecticut State Department of Public Health urges Connecticut residents to test their homes for radon gas, the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers.

The natural decay of uranium causes production of radon radioactive particles. While radon levels are varied, every one of Iowa’s 99 counties is considered at high risk for elevated levels.

“Since you can’t see or smell radon, testing is the only way to know the level, if any, of exposure in your home”.

Symptoms of poisoning, according to the National Radon Defense website, resemble those of lung cancer: a persistent cough, difficulty breathing, chest pains, wheezing, hoarseness and respiratory infections like pneumonia or bronchitis. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer deaths in the US, claiming about 20,000 lives annually, or slightly more than two every hour. Learn more about testing your home, including how to obtain an easy-to-use test kit at epa.gov/radon/find-radon-test-kit-or-measurement-and-mitigation-professional. Some improvement stores also have the test kits for sale, but in some areas, the state may offer radon testing for free. Testing is simple and low-priced, and when problems are discovered, they’re easier to fix than you’d think. In 2014 41% of homes tested in Madison County showed levels of radon which exceeded levels recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency.

Radon levels vary throughout CT. The American Lung Association of the Northeast is offering a radon test kit and information packet for $14.50. In case a home test reading is above 4 picocuries per liter, residents should contact a company specializing in removing radon, remarked John O’Brien, who is a Real State One associate broker in Novi.