Radon is a radioactive gas that can seep through cracks in your home, posing a lung cancer risk. It is odourless, tasteless and colourless, and can enter buildings and enclosed spaces undetected. Here in the Okanagan, radon gas is an issue, partly due to our geology. However, testing is easy and radon mitigation systems can be installed to fix the problem in your home.
Health Effects
Long-term exposure to high levels of radon damages the DNA in our lung tissue and is currently leading to over 3,000 Canadian deaths each year – more than the combined toll of car collisions, house fires, carbon monoxide poisoning and drowning.
Free Radon Test Kits
Take Action on Radon, a coalition of national health organizations, is distributing 100 free radon test kits to Penticton residents this fall to raise awareness about the health risks associated with radon.
Thank you for your interest in this campaign. All the free test kits have now been claimed, but if you're interested in testing your home, some are available to borrow from the Penticton Public Library.
Free Radon Information Session
The free online info session will be: Monday, Oct. 27 at 7 p.m. Information will be sent to those who have pre-registered. All residents are encouraged to attend, whether or not they choose to participate in the testing program, to learn more about the health effects of radon, why it’s a concern in our area, and Health Canada’s recommendations for homeowners. Click the link below to join the Zoom meeting.