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By Veronica Beltran

radon testing can save lives

Radon testing kits to be distributed in Valemount

Oct 29, 2019 | 11:28 AM

VALEMOUNT–100 free radon testing kits are being handed out in an attempt to bring awareness to the health risks the gas can pose.

Radon is a radioactive gas that is caused naturally when the uranium in soil and rock breaks down. The invisible, odourless, and tasteless gas can become a concern in enclosed spaces, such as your home.

The testing kits, part of the 100 Radon Test Kits Challenge, (the challenge targets 15 communities a year across Canada where radon testing has been limited, but where the potential for the gas is high )are planned to be distributed to the community during the month of November.

“Many Canadians still don’t know that radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers, and that simply reducing radon exposure can save lives,” says Pam Warkentin, Executive Director of the Canadian Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists (CARST), and Project Manager for Take Action on Radon.

Exposure to the gas for long periods of time, in high amounts, can lead to damage in DNA in our lung tissue, causing cancer. It’s worse for smokers, they have a higher fatality rate if exposed to radon for long periods of time.

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A study by Health Canada has found that 8 percent of British Columbians have tested their homes for radon. “There are many misconceptions, but we’re planning on changing that with our test kit events this November,” says Carleena Shepherd, Deputy Corporate Officer, Village of Valemount. “People need to start talking about it. Testing your home for radon is simple, and there are proven and effective methods to reduce radon in your home that can save lives.”

Test kits will be distributed at the Village of Valemount Council Chambers on November 18th, 19th and 20th from 11 AM to 2 PM.