SRD Offering Free Radon Test Kits To Residents

The Strathcona Regional District has teamed up with Take Action on Radon to help protect residents from lung cancer by joining the National 100 Radon Test Kit Challenge.

In a release, the SRD says too few Canadians are aware that the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers can be found right in their own homes.

Radon gas is a concern across Canada, but only a radon test will indicate whether the levels in your home are a health concern to you and your family.

“Radon is a well-established human carcinogen and testing and reducing radon levels is an important method of lung cancer prevention,” said Dr. Anne-Marie Nicol, a researcher from the Faculty of Sciences from Simon Fraser University.

“Residential radon is marked as Canadians' primary exposure to radon; preventing radon exposure will reduce the number of Canadians dying of lung cancer.”

Residents across the Strathcona Region are encouraged to protect their health this winter by participating in the 100 Radon Test Kit Challenge and testing their homes for radon.

The free program includes a Radon Virtual Information Session on Monday, November 25th, which will cover the health risks of radon, why it's a concern in the region, and Health Canada’s recommendations for homeowners.

Free test kits will be provided to 100 households, with details shared during the session.

A summary report, highlighting any community concerns and trends based on factors like building age, will be provided to the Regional District without identifying individual homes.

"The 100 Radon Test Kit Challenge is a fantastic opportunity to support families throughout the region as they work to protect their health,” said Strathcona Regional District Board Chair, Mark Baker.

“Over the past few years, we've all gained a deeper understanding of the importance of air quality, and radon gas is a crucial part of that discussion."

Participants can learn more and register online at Strathcona Regional District.