The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation announced its new online system for Tennesseans to order free radon test kits, making it easier than ever for citizens to identify and address potential radon exposure problems at home.
Administered by the Office of Environmental Assistance, the Tennessee Radon Program provides free radon test kits to all Tennessee citizens – made possible through a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. With the new online ordering system, these free kits are now just a mouse click away.
“Tennesseans can check for the presence of radon in the home with a simple test,” said Environment and Conservation Deputy Commissioner Paul Sloan. “I encourage all Tennesseans to order one of these free, easy-to-use test kits and take this important step to protect the health of your loved ones from the dangers of exposure to radon."
Radon is a naturally occurring gas that can seep into homes through cracks and openings in their foundations. It cannot be seen, tasted or smelled, but in concentrated levels, radon can pose a threat to human health. The EPA estimates that approximately 70 percent of Tennessee’s population lives in high risk or moderate risk radon areas. According to the EPA, radon is the number one cause of lung cancer among non-smokers and is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States.
The best time to test is during consistently cold weather, usually from October to March. This is the time of year when doors and windows are shut, so test results are more representative of in-home exposure. Radon problems can be fixed by qualified contractors for a cost comparable to that of many common household repairs, such as painting or installing a new water heater.
While radon poses a serious threat to our community’s health, radon kits are the first step toward a straightforward solution. To order a free, radon test kit or to learn more about the dangers of radon exposure, please visit www.tn.gov/environment/ea/radon. Information on radon, testing, mitigation and radon-resistant new construction also can be found on the Tennessee Radon Program’s Web site or by contacting them toll free at 800/232-1139.