Rockland Health Officials Offer Free Radon Testing Kits

NEW CITY, NY — During January, which is designated as Radon Action Month by the Environmental Protection Agency, Rockland County health officials are offering free radon testing kits to eligible residents.

The EPA guideline is 4 picocuries per liter. In 2019, 15 percent of the Rockland homes tested had higher levels of radon, the New York Health Department reported.

"Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that you cannot see, smell or taste. It can build up in your home, get into the air you breathe, and can cause lung cancer in you and your loved ones," said County Health Commissioner Dr. Patricia Schnabel Ruppert.

Radon usually comes from the surrounding rocks and soil under a building's foundation and can enter through cracks and openings. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer deaths in the U.S. and the number one cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. If you smoke and your home has high radon levels, your risk of lung cancer is especially high.

The risks tend to be higher during the cold winter months when homes are more tightly closed up or sealed, but exposure to radon continues year round.

If the level within a home tests high, action can be taken to reduce it. Repair costs vary and sometimes a simple solution can correct a problem.

The Rockland County Health Department's Healthy Neighborhoods Program provides free, home radon testing for low to moderate-income families and seniors. A brief home-safety survey is required at the time of the visit. To schedule a free radon test, while supplies last, call 845-364-3290 or 845-364-3292.

Residents can also get radon test kits from the New York State Department of Health, for a fee of $11. To learn more about radon and radon testing, fixing your radon problem, radon-resistant new construction, and for a list of approved radon testing labs and certified radon mitigation professionals, call the New York State Department of Health at 800-458-1158, e-mail at radon@health.state.ny.us or click here.