Protect your family and community from radon

WAUKEGAN – Radon can build up in any home or building, whether new or old, with a basement or not. It cannot be seen, tasted or smelled.

The Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center recommends that residents test the radon levels in their homes and apartments during the winter, when radon levels are highest.

“Radon is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. and it easily goes undetected,” said Mike Adam, the Health Department’s deputy director of Environmental Health. “Testing your home for radon is a simple and inexpensive way to keep your family healthy.”

The Health Department offers short-term testing kits for $10, available at 500 W. Winchester Road, Libertyville, or for $13 by mail. The cost includes return postage, laboratory analysis and interpretation by Health Department staff.

Test kits also are available from area hardware and building supply stores.

If test results reveal elevated levels of radon in your home, contact a radon professional to evaluate and fix the problem.

Radon is a radioactive gas naturally found in rock and soil. It typically moves up through the ground to the air above and into your home through cracks and other holes in the foundation. Your home traps radon inside, where it can build up.

Any home may have a radon problem. This means new and old homes, well-sealed and drafty homes and homes with or without basements.

For more information and to request a short-term testing kit, call the Health Department at 847-377-8020 or visit http://www.lakecountyil.gov/2450/Radon.