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The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach of Hamilton County and Montgomery Memorial Library is hosting a radon gas discussion with Kapil Arora, extension agricultural engineering specialist next week in Jewell.
The discussion, led by Arora, will be on radon testing, results of radon testing and how different mitigation strategies may be helpful. This informational presentation will be held Tuesday, October 20 at 7 p.m. at the Montgomery Public Library in Jewell. This program is designed to help communities comprehend the dangers of radon and ways to mitigate the danger.
Radon is a radioactive, colorless, odorless and tasteless gas that comes from the ground. It accumulates in homes and can cause lung cancer. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that radon is the second-leading cause of lung cancer and is a serious public health problem.
According to the EPA, the entire state of Iowa is considered at high risk for radon gas in homes. High levels of radon can be found in any type of home. It is important that all residents test their home. New and old homes, well-sealed and drafty homes, and homes with or without basements are all at risk. This type of lung cancer is preventable, but the only way to know if a home has elevated levels of radon is to conduct a test.
Each pre-registered household in attendance will receive a free radon test kit, and the informational meeting is also free to attend. Participants will learn about the potential negative health effects of radon exposure and how to properly place a radon test kit in the home for the safest and most accurate results.
Information will also be provided on how to read test results and what options are available for addressing radon gas if elevated levels are detected.
To learn more about radon and the steps you can take to protect your household, be sure to register, by calling the Hamilton County Extension office at 515-832-9597 or online at: https://form.jotform.com/261613904952156. Free radon testing kits will only be available to those who are registered.