HELENA, Mont. (NMB) – In recognition of National Radon Action Month, the Montana Department of Environmental Quality is offering free test kits for residents to test radon levels in their homes.
Radon is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas found in some Montana homes. Long-term exposure can lead to a risk of lung cancer so it’s important to have your home tested for radon and install a mitigation system if levels are elevated. The winter months are the best time to test your home because radon levels are typically at their highest due to doors and windows being closed.
The Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) offers free radon test kits for Montanans to test radon levels in their homes. To obtain a free test kit simply fill out the form at: aelabs.com/mt.
Radon is measured in picocuries (pCi) per liter of air. There is no safe level of radon gas, but installation of a mitigation system should be considered for levels at 4 pCi/L and above to reduce health risks. Mitigation can also occur for levels between 2 pCi/L and 4 pCi/L. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates the radon level in the outside air is about 0.4 pCi/L, making it difficult to lower radon levels to zero.
Radon is caused by the breakdown, or decay, of uranium in soil, rock and water. The EPA estimates that homes throughout Montana have the potential for elevated levels due to the geology and soil in the region.
Radon gas can enter homes through miniscule cracks in the floor or small spaces around utility pipes and can accumulate unless properly mitigated. If mitigation is needed, DEQ offers a list of mitigation professionals who are certified by the National Radon Proficiency Program or the National Radon Safety board. For more information visit: https://deq.mt.gov/energy/Programs/radon.
Courtesy of DEQ
United States