Central Albertans will have free access to radon screening kits.
Parkland Regional Library has partnered with the Alberta Lung Association, and with support from Health Canada, will offer radon screening kits in an addition to the other materials patrons can borrow.
“Radon gas is common throughout Canada and can pose a serious health threat in high concentrations,” says library director Ronald Sheppard.
Radon is an invisible, odourless gas that comes from the breakdown of uranium in the ground and can build up in homes undetected.
Exposure to radon gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer. Recent research from the University of Calgary indicated one in six homes in Western Canada have high radon levels.
“Knowing your home’s radon level is the first step in determining if you and your family are at risk. Don’t wait, test your home today,” said Leigh Allard, president and CEO of the Alberta Lung Association.
Health Canada encourages Canadians to test their homes for radon to minimize risks of lung cancer. Using the new screening kits available, patrons at any Parkland Regional Library branch can gain awareness of radon levels in their home.
“Every home has radon. The important factor is knowing how much. The only way to know is to test,” notes Andrew Heshka, regional radiation specialist with Health Canada.
The kits are for initial screening only. Long-term radon testing, for three months, is required after the screening to get an accurate average radon level in a home.
The kits can be put on hold and checked out for a period of three weeks.