Freeborn County Public Health offers free radon test kits - KTTC Rochester, Austin, Mason City News, Weather and Sports

AUSTIN, Minn. (KTTC) -- According to the Minnesota Department of Health, nearly 80 percent of the state's counties are rated "High Radon" zones.  Some of those counties include Blue Earth, Dodge, Fillmore, Mower, Olmsted, Steele and Winona.  Freeborn County rates among the highest, as the 12th county with high radon levels.

"I just want the people of the community to know that radon is an issue in our county," said Sue Yost, Director of Freeborn County Public Health. "They really should have their homes tested, even if they have a new home, they should have their homes tested."

Freeborn County Public Health is offering free radon test kits to residents.  Last year, the office gave more than 150 kits to homeowners.  Detecting radon is often difficult as it is a colorless, odorless, naturally occurring gas.  The dangerous vapor can seep into a home in a variety of ways including cracks in concrete, floor-wall joints and exposed soil in a sump or crawl space.

According to the Minnesota Department of Health, elevated radon levels and increased exposure can cause lung cancer.  However, exposure is preventable.  MDH recommends testing your home every 2-5 years.  The department offers more information on how to protect your home from radon at: www.state.health.mn.us/radon.