The air quality inside our homes is important, especially during the colder winter months as many people spend more time indoors. Radon gas builds up in homes overtime and can’t be seen, tasted, or smelled — making it easy for radon to go undetected in your home. The Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center recommends that all residents test the radon levels in their homes and apartments.
“Radon is one of the leading causes of lung cancer among nonsmokers in America,” said Mark Pfister, the Health Department’s Executive Director. “Testing for radon is the only way to know if your home is exposed.”
The Health Department offers short-term kits for $10.00, available at 500 W. Winchester Rd., Libertyville. The cost includes return postage, laboratory analysis and interpretation by Health Department staff. Kits are also available from area hardware and building supply stores. If test results reveal elevated levels of radon in your home, contact a radon professional to evaluate and fix the problem.
Radon is an odorless and colorless gas that naturally occurs in rock and soil. It typically moves through the ground to the air above and into your home through cracks and other holes in your foundation. Your home traps radon inside, where it can build up. Both old and new homes can be affected by elevated levels of radon.
For more information and to request a short-term testing kit, contact the Health Department at: (847) 377-8020 or visit lakecountyil.gov/2450.