The Montgomery Township Health Department is working with the Greater Somerset Public Health Partnership (GSPHP) to recognize January as Radon Awareness Month.
Radon is an odorless, tasteless and invisible gas that occurs naturally in soil. It is released from the natural decay of the elements uranium, thorium and radium, and occurs in higher concentrations in certain areas of the state, including Somerset County. It is adviseable to test your home during a time when outside windows are kept closed, such as January or other winter months.
Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in nonsmokers and the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. Radon is associated with 15,000 to 22,000 lung cancer deaths each year in the United States.
"In an effort to reduce the risk of exposure to radon gas, residents are urged to test their homes," said Stephanie Carey, Health Officer of Montgomery Township. "It's not uncommon to find that homes on the same block will have different test results. Its best to find out. If needed, affordable systems to reduce radon gas to safe levels in a home are available from area contractors."
Starting on
Tues., January 3,
2017, one radon kit per household will be available on a first-come, first-served basis for $10 for home testing. Radon kits may be picked up at the Montgomery Township Health Department, 2261 Route 206, Belle Mead while supplies last. (Please note that our offices are closed on Mon., Jan. 2nd.)
Montgomery Twp. Health Dept.
