The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recognizes January as National Radon Action Month, estimating the colorless, odorless, radioactive gas kills about 21,000 Americans annually. Since there are no warning signs or symptoms from radon exposure, testing is the only way to know if a building and the people in it are at risk.

“There is no safe level of radon. It is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers in the U.S.,” Environmental Health Division Manager Lucus Pols said. “Fortunately, testing is simple, and recommended for every home in Kalamazoo County due to its high potential for increased levels of the deadly gas.”

The Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department, located at 311 E. Alcott Street, is handing out free rapid radon test kits all January long. These kits, which usually cost $10, can detect the invisible gas—especially during the winter months when families are spending more time indoors.

Radon comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water, but can sneak into buildings through cracks in the foundation. Over time, these radioactive particles can build up in the air, threatening those who breathe it in with an increased risk of lung cancer.

Long-term test kits that test the air for at least three months and up to one year are available online from the State of Michigan Indoor Radon Program at www.mi.radon.com.

To learn more about radon, contact the Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department’s Environmental Health Division at (269) 373-5210 or visit www.kalcounty.com/eh.