Oconto County Public Health has radon test kits available for county residents.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, radon is the No. 1 cause of lung cancer among nonsmokers. Overall, radon is the second-leading cause of lung cancer.
Radon is a colorless, odorless and tasteless naturally occurring gas. It comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water and gets into the air. It can be found all over the U.S. and Wisconsin and can get into any type of building, which may result in a high level of radon.
Nearly one out of every 15 homes in the U.S. is estimated to have high radon levels, according to the EPA.
Individuals are most likely to get the most radon exposure in their homes, since that is where they spend most of their time. The only way to know how much radon is in a home is to measure it with a test.
Radon test kits are available for $6. They can also be mailed out for $8.50.
Before individuals receive a test kit, they are asked their name, address and phone number and whether they will test the first floor or basement of their home. In general, the level of the home where the most time is spent is the level to test. The information is kept private and is used in tracking results for Oconto County.
To order a test kit, call 920-834-7000.
Radon can be controlled in any house. More than 60 contractors in Wisconsin are nationally certified to install radon control systems.
For more information on radon, call the Northern Radon Information Center in Marathon County at 715-261-1900 or visit lowradon.org.
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