A radon testing device (photo courtesy of Health Canada's Take Action on Radon initiative)

By Liam Verster

cancer-causing gas

Radon gas testing kits available to RDCO residents

Oct 12, 2021 | 1:31 PM

Residents of the Regional District of Central Okanagan (RDNO) will be able to access free radon gas testing kits.

The RDCO has 300 kits available for those who register online.

RDCO’s air quality program coordinator, Nancy Mora Castro, said the program will allow residents to have easy access to radon testing.

“Homeowners should take the opportunity this fall to test their homes and if required, reduce their radon exposure,” said Castro. “It’s an easy step to help reduce the risk of lung cancer.”

Radon, an odourless and invisible radioactive gas that escapes from the ground into buildings, is the leading cause of lung-cancer among non-smokers. Radon levels can vary from building to building, and the only way to accurately gauge the potential health impact radon brings is through testing.

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“Radon is a known carcinogen and exposure to elevated of levels increases a person’s risk of developing lung cancer later in life,” said Dr. Silvina Mema, the Medical Health Officer for Interior Health.

“As we look at ways to prevent future cancers and look after our well-being, testing and reducing radon levels is an important step for cancer prevention.”

RDCO residents that apply for the radon testing program will be able to pick up the testing kits between Nov. 1–5. They will be asked to follow the instructions and complete a 91-day minimum test, then return the kits in late February so they can be analyzed. The test results will be sent to participants in the spring, along with mitigation recommendations.

The RDCO is running the radon testing program in conjunction with Health Canada’s Take Action on Radon initiative, Interior Health, and the B.C. Lung Association.