What is Radon?
Radon is a colorless and odorless radioactive gas that naturally occurs in soil. Outdoors, radon levels are low because they are diluted. However, in our homes, radon levels can build up and cause serious health problems. In fact, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer behind smoking, and it is the #1 cause of lung cancer in Kansas for nonsmokers. It is estimated that there are 200 new radon-related lung cancer cases in Kansas each year.
January is Kansas Radon Action Month and if you don’t know your home’s radon level, I encourage you to find out. At-home test kits are affordable and easy to use. You can buy a radon kit for $9.50 through Kansas State Extension. The Cottonwood District offers them at both locations: Hays at 601 Main St. and Great Bend at 3007 10th St.