Free radon test kit available

January is radon awareness month in Texas. The state health department is giving out free home radon test kits paid for by a grant from the EPA. Go to http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/radiation/radon.shtm .

While supplies last, the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) is offering free short-term radon test kits to encourage more Texans to test their homes for radon. DSHS has contracted with DrHomeAir to take the orders and mail the kits. You can place an order for a free kit by going to the DrHomeAir Web site, and entering your contact information in the "Texas Radon Program" area. Please note that you may request only one free test kit for an address under this program. The address must be a Texas residence.

Test kits might be found at your local hardware store for about $10 – $15, depending on the demand for kits in your particular area. You may also purchase a test kit online from a number of sources, including DrHomeAir and the National Safety Council.

Please note that if radon levels in the home exceed four (4) picocuries per liter of air (pCi/L) the EPA recommends that homeowners should take action. When using a short-term test kit, additional testing is recommended to confirm the high levels.