We've been busy in CT promoting radon awareness, testing and mitigation through a variety of methods, all of which are only possible because of our public and private industry partners. This year, we're overseeing the deliverables of a regional NRAM contract with the American Lung Association (ALA). Using SIRG money, we've asked the ALA to help Region 1 promote radon during the month of January through the media, and in collaboration with each of New England's Radon Program coordinators. The ALA has been busy promoting the EPA PSAs, doing radio spots, and getting press releases published through New England. In addition, they have been busy collaborating with each of the New England Radon Program coordinators, and providing support and assistance (where needed and requested).
On January 8th, the CT Department of Public Health and RI Department of Health Radon Programs, in collaboration with the American Lung Association sponsored the annual Radon Action Month Conference in Mystic, CT. This year we had over 85 people register to attend the event...and close to that many actually attended, even though it was right after a blizzard hit! The theme this year was "Radon Leaders Saving Lives," and that's exactly who presented at the conference-radon leaders from CT and RI. We had a special visitor this year, Bill Long from the U.S. EPA, who provided the opening remarks, and an overview of federal initiatives. Two presentations on radiation and radon in granite countertops by a private consultant, and radiation protection program staffperson generated some lively discussion. Don Mitchell - a local health champion - shared his experiences on promoting radon-resistant new construction in his health district. A professional engineer also provided an overview on the technical specifications for the components of RRNC in large buildings. And last, but not least, a contractor from RI described his efforts to promote radon awareness and reduction in his home state. We sure did cover a lot of ground in such a short amount of time!
The regional radon contract with the ALA also enabled the Vermont and NH Radon Control Programs to host a National Radon Action Month conference in VT (at a ski resort) on January 15th. I'm sure that the Northern New England NRAM conference will be a great success!
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