Winneshiek County Public Health is selling radon testing kits

January has been designated as "Radon Action Month" in Iowa. That's why the Winneshiek county Public Health Nursing Service is publicizing the fact that radon test kits are simple to use, cost just $10 each and may be purchased at Winneshiek County Public Health.

Radon is an odorless, colorless, tasteless gas that causes no immediate health symptoms, but long-term exposures can cause lung cancer. It comes from the breakdown of uranium in soil. Simple test kits can reveal the amount of radon in any building. Buildings with high levels can usually be fixed with simple and affordable venting techniques.

Radon gas seeps into a house the same way air or other soil gases enter: from the soil around and under the home; through cracks in the foundation, floor or walls; through hollow-block walls; and through openings around floor drains, pipes and sump pumps.

Additional information about radon is available from the Winneshiek County Public Health Office at (563) 382-4662.