Radon
Radon is a radioactive and odorless gas that comes from trace amounts of natural uranium in the ground. Radon seeps through cracks and openings in the basement and foundation of homes. Breathing indoor air with high level of radon can lead to lung cancer. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, after smoking, and the leading cause of lung cancer among nonsmokers.
Five to ten percent of the homes in Wisconsin have elevated radon levels on the main floor. Systems can be installed to reduce radon levels. Homes with high levels are found in all regions of Wisconsin including Manitowoc County. The levels can vary greatly within neighborhoods, so everyone should test their home. Testing for radon is easy and inexpensive.
The Manitowoc County Health Department has been designated as a Regional Radon Information Center for Brown, Door, Calumet, Kewaunee and Manitowoc Counties. Both short and long term test kits are available year round from the Manitowoc County Health Department. Short term kit price is $7 each and long term kit price is $21 each if picked up at the Manitowoc County Health Department. Analysis is included in this price. To obtain a test kit, just stop in at the Manitowoc County Health Department at 1028 S 9th Street, Manitowoc or call (920) 683-4155. Test kits can also be ordered through the mail using the Radon Test Kit Order Form (there is an additional $8 fee for postage).
State of Wisconsin Radon Website – Wisconsin Department of Health Services
This website contains extensive information regarding radon including lists of nationally certified measurement and mitigation providers, radon information by zip code, and EPA publications.