From a press release:
Buncombe County Environmental Health is partnering with the NC Radon program to provide free short-term radon test kits in recognition of National Radon Action Month. A limited supply of free radon test kits are available beginning Monday, Jan. 5, 2015, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 30 Valley Street, Asheville, until supplies run out.
Lung cancer caused by radon can strike anyone, even a nonsmoker. Test your home for radon – lowering the level of radon in your home lowers your risk for lung cancer. This is especially important as the season brings colder weather to our area and families close windows to keep warm.
Radon is the odorless, colorless gas that is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. In the U.S., roughly one out of every 16 homes tests positive for radon. This is a silent killer that affects upwards of 22,000 people each year who die from radon-induced lung cancer.
Approximately 7,000 kits are being distributed statewide. Only one kit per home is needed to determine if your home has a high level. Once the free kits are distributed, short-term radon test kits are being offered at a reduced cost of $5.34 ($15 retail value) from www.ncradon.org.
The North Carolina Radon Program website also contains a new mobile application targeted to help real estate brokers working in North Carolina. The mobile application indicates how many radon tests have been conducted within a zip code as well as the highest radon level recorded in that zip code. The user of the APP will also be able to locate a certified professional to assist them in testing or fixing the radon issue in their home.
The cost of lowering radon levels in a home averages about $1,500. The North Carolina Radon Protection Section sought help for families that might struggle to meet that expense. The Self Help Credit Union stepped up and created a loan program specifically for radon mitigation. North Carolina homeowners who meet federal poverty criteria may be eligible for forgivable loans from local programs. A link to more information is available on the NC Radon Program web page.
For more information, visit www.ncradon.org or call 828-250-5016.
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