The Strathcona Regional District is urging residents to take part in the 100 Radon Test Kit Challenge this November, encouraging everyone to test their homes for radon gas, a substance linked to lung cancer.
"Too few Canadians are aware that the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers can be found right in their own homes," states an Oct. 24 media release. "Radon gas is a concern across Canada, but only a radon test will indicate whether the levels in your home are a health concern to you and your family."
This free program includes a Radon Virtual Information Session on Monday, Nov. 25, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. via Zoom. It will address the health risks of radon, explain why it is a concern in the region, and Health Canada’s recommendations for homeowners, says the regional district.
Complimentary test kits will be offered to 100 households, with more details to be discussed during the session.
Each participating homeowner will receive their results confidentially, explains the regional district.
Additionally, a summary report will be provided highlighting the community concerns and trends, influenced by factors such as the age of buildings, and this will be shared with the regional district without disclosing any individual home identities.
“The 100 Radon Test Kit Challenge is a fantastic opportunity to support families throughout the region as they work to protect their health,” said Mark Baker, Strathcona Regional District board chair.
“Over the past few years, we’ve all gained a deeper understanding of the importance of air quality, and radon gas is a crucial part of that discussion.”
Anne-Marie Nicol, a researcher from the Faculty of Sciences from Simon Fraser University, said radon is a known human carcinogen. She said testing and reducing radon levels is an important method of lung cancer prevention.
“Preventing radon exposure will reduce the number of Canadians dying of lung cancer," she said.
According to Pam Warkentin, the Canadian Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists' executive director, and Take Action on Radon project manager, many Canadians are aware of radon gas, but have not yet tested their homes.
If it's your first time hearing about radon or already familiar with it, the regional district suggests it's a great time to test your home if you haven't done so yet.
For those who have tested in the past, it is recommended to re-test every three to five years to ensure continued safety.
A link to join the session will be emailed directly to all registrants. Radon test kits must be picked up between Nov. 26 and 29. Pick-up locations are available throughout the region, and instructions with location details will be emailed to the first 100 participants who register.
Funding for this project is provided by Health Canada. Kit sign-up is online on the SRD website.
