RDCO providing free radon testing kits for second year in a row

The Regional District of Central Okanagan Air Quality program will be providing 300 radon gas testing kits to residents.

Radon is an odourless and invisible radioactive gas that naturally occurs and is found in the ground across the world.

“Radon is a known carcinogen and exposure to elevated levels increases a person’s risk of developing lung cancer later in life,” says Dr. Mema, Interior Health medical health officer.

According to the media release, radon gas is one of the leading causes of lung cancer among non-smokers and the Central Okanagan is considered a high risk area.

The release explains that radon levels can vary greatly and as a result, the only way to accurately gauge the potential health impact is to test buildings.

“Homeowners should take the opportunity this fall to test their homes and if required, reduce their radon exposure,” says Nancy Mora Castro, Air Quality program coordinator.

Central Okanagan residents need to register online before Oct. 18 to receive a testing kit which will be sent out between Nov. 1 to 5.

Those who receive a kit will need to follow the instruction to complete the 91-day test and then will need to return the kit to their local government by late February.

Results and mitigation recommendations will be sent back in early spring 2022.

The RDCO Air Quality Program, Health Canada’s Take Action on Radon initiative, Interior Health and the BC Lung Association are partnering to bring these testing kits to residents for the second year in a row.