Date Published: 01/17/2020 [Source]
New Milford residents can again test for radon in their homes for free.
It is offered by the New Milford Health Department in cooperation with the Connecticut Department of Public Health. The purpose is to encourage residents to test their homes for radon gas and to take corrective action when the radon level is found to be elevated.
Radon gas is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers and it is estimated to be responsible for 21,000 deaths each year in the United States. Radon is a naturally occurring, radioactive gas formed from the natural decay of uranium and is found in rock, soil and water. It's a low risk when outside, but can become a health hazard if it enters buildings.
Radon gas is odorless and invisible, which is why testing for radon and reducing elevated levels is so important.
The DPH Radon Program recommends that all Connecticut homes be tested for radon in the winter when radon levels tend to build up indoors.
Residents can get a free radon test kit by calling the town's health department to make an appointment.