Free radon test kits available from State of Oregon

Submitted By: jlb-sam@comcast.net – Click to email about this post
The Oregon Health Authority runs a Radon Awareness Program that offers free test kits to residents whose homes are in ZIP codes with fewer than 20 radon test results. You can search “Oregon free radon test kit” or send an email to radon.program@odhsoha.state.or.us to receive info on how to get a free test kit, while supplies last.

According to the online info, ZIP codes 97130 and 97147 have no data reported. ZIP code 97131 has 8 results reported – but the level is high.

The State announcement says: “Many parts of Oregon remain at risk of high radon – an odorless, tasteless and invisible gas. It is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes up from the ground and is drawn into buildings, where it can build up to dangerous levels.

“The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that radon is responsible for more than 20,000 lung cancer deaths per year in the United States. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. after cigarette smoking, and the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. The best time to test is during the heating season, when windows and doors are closed up tight.”

If the State runs out of supplies, test kits can be purchased in many hardware stores.