Quinnipiack Valley Health District (QVHD), the local health department for Bethany, Hamden, North Haven and Woodbridge, announces that it no longer has free radon testing kits available. However, radon kits can be purchased for a low cost from the American Lung Association, 1-800-LUNG-USA(1-800-586-4872), or from big box stores like Home Depot and Lowes. If you have never tested your home for radon, it is worth the nominal cost of a test kit to evaluate your home. Radon is a natural element that results from the decay of uranium. It can enter the home through cracks, crevices and holes in the foundation or it can dissolve in underground water sources such as wells. Any home can have radon, whether it is old or new. Testing is the only way to identify it. Most homes can be fixed for a reasonable cost. Long term exposure to radon can increase the risk of lung cancer, particularly in smokers. For written information on radon, District residents only can call QVHD, 203 248-4528, or request on line, www.qvhd.org.
