By Margaret Henderson
The Radon Program within the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality provides public information and offers assistance through a variety of mediums, which reach large and varied audiences and encourage testing and sharing of information. Test results provided by the state laboratory have shown that there are high levels (exceeding 4 pCi/L, the EPA recommended action level) in every county in Oklahoma, which makes the need for testing a message the program wants to communicate.
Response to inquiries from the public, schools, realtors and new residents is provided through a variety of means. “Social media, such as Twitter, Facebook and Instagram, are methods used to reach different audiences,” noted Keisha Cornelius, Radon Program Coordinator. Within the past few years, the program has included these mediums in making its public information releases. Another outreach opportunity that allows contact with large numbers of people comes with presentations at annual home and garden shows in cities like Oklahoma City and Tulsa. In January, the program participated in the Oklahoma City Home and Garden Show, which was held at the fairgrounds in four large buildings with thousands attending. Keisha explains that home and garden shows not only allow a means to present radon information to residents, but also provide networking opportunities to talk with inspectors, realtors and other business owners. Attendance at the show allows for the exchange of information with a variety of individuals.
The Radon Program assists, as requested, in such services as testing public schools or providing information and training to real estate professionals. A particularly effective means of interaction has been with the radon poster contest in schools and its awards presentation ceremonies when the Radon Program staff participates and gives information to a wide audience of students, aunts, uncles and parents.
Through a combined approach of social media and presence at community activities, the Radon Program shares information and offers assistance while raising awareness of the need to test for radon in all areas of the state.
For more information, contact:
Keisha Cornelius
Oklahoma Radon Program Coordinator
Phone Number: 405-702-5162
Fax Number: 405-702-5100
United States